Farmers have been urged to take extra precautions during harvest season, as the after-effects of the year’s erratic weather have left many farms in a dangerous state. Following the wettest April and June on record, rural insurer NFU Mutual has warned that harvest this season risks being a damp and difficult affair in many parts of the UK.

The warning comes days after farmers were advised that crops in many parts of the UK will require significant extra combining and drying this year, potentially resulting in even higher costs.

At the beginning of the month, farming was once again revealed to be the UK’s most dangerous profession; statistics from the Health and Safety Executive showed the number of fatal accidents in agriculture rose by ten per cent in 2011/2012.

The insurers urged farmers to take extra care of themselves and their workers during what could be one of the most challenging harvests in years. Manager Matthew Scott advised farmers against continuing work when conditions become unsafe and working when tired. He suggested checking to ensure dust and chaff are cleaned from hotspots, paying attention to warning devices on machinery and not attempting to repair any machinery which is still running.

Remaining in touch with lone workers is also imperative health and safety practice, NFU Mutual said. The insurer advised farmers to develop a system to keep in touch with anyone working alone. Workers are advised to keep a mobile phone on their person at all times, not left in a vehicle or similar and to keep a first aid kit to hand.

Tweet