Deaths in the agricultural sector remain high

Categories: Agriculture Health and Safety |


Deaths in the agricultural sector remain high The number of deaths in the agricultural sector remains high, according to recent statistics from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

It is one of the most dangerous industries in the country and between 2007 and 2008 there were 39 deaths, taking the ten-year total up to 455.

The HSE said that the level has remained consistently high, noting that there were six deaths in the north-west, with 159 serious injuries.

An estimated £23.7 million has been lost by the industry as a result of injuries or deaths.

While less than 1.5 per cent of the population is employed in agriculture, it is responsible for more than 15 per cent of fatalities in the UK's workplaces each year.

Judith Donovan, non-executive HSE board member, said: "It is simply unacceptable that, almost every week, someone dies in a needless farm accident. These accidents don't just destroy lives, they destroy whole families, and often their farms too."

The Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992 require businesses to train staff in the use of gear such as hi vis clothing and suitable workwear.ADNFCR-1200-ID-18938960-ADNFCR

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