Farm Health and Safety

A Different Approach

We tailor our approach to your specific situation, whether you're adopting a formal plan for the first time or updating an existing policy. Our goal is to create a Farm Health and Safety File that serves as your go-to guide for safety, helps with staff training, supports HSE inspections, and gives you peace of mind.

Our comprehensive Farm Health and Safety File includes:

Farm Folder

To help you and your team, a bespoke folder will be compiled to include information such as photos of your farm and equipment, detailed site plans, and emergency procedures. In addition, there will be a traffic light priority system plan highlighting any areas needing improvement and the order in which they should be completed. The folder will be available in both physical and electronic formats.

Dedicated Farm Support

You will be allocated a dedicated 'farm support' individual who will be your day-to-day contact and will carry out each of the quarterly visits, updates, and revisions.

All of our team have agricultural and rural backgrounds and many are actively involved in their spare time.

Customisable Visits

The content of each quarterly visit will be agreed with you in advance to maximise its effectiveness. This is often guided by seasonality - for example, lambing, planting, harvesting, summer holidays, winter maintenance - or by your priority, such as:

HSE Inspection - pre-inspection audits

Staff Inductions – H&S awareness training and induction

Harvest Training – staff training and toolbox talks

Diversification – site audits and information packs

Farm Event – pre-event audit and traffic management plans

New Buildings – construction phase plans

Mental Health – awareness and signposting

One Step at a Time

We do not overwhelm you and your staff with mountains of paperwork

Start with the highest priority task - often on a risk basis

Then complete additional tasks each visit - multiple visits keep the process moving forwards

Staff engagement is crucial - they are typically most at risk

Staff input to forms via interactive training “we do it this way”

Farming is a vital and rewarding profession, but it comes with its share of risk and a busy schedule, which can make health and safety management feel overwhelming. Whether you have fewer than five employees or more, paid or unpaid, part-time, full-time, or seasonal, you have a legal responsibility to ensure their safety.

For example, The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 outlines that every employer has legal duties regarding the health and safety of their employees and the public. Employers are required to have a written health and safety policy and risk assessments if they employ more than five staff. However, even with fewer than five employees, you must conduct risk assessments and be able to provide evidence of this in the event of an investigation. Best practice is to have written policies, risk assessments, and safe systems of work in place. Additionally, The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002 requires employers to control the risk of exposure to hazardous substances.

These are just a few examples of legal requirements that employers are legally required to ensure health and safety of their employees.

If the worst does happen, you’ll be prepared by following HSE legislation and guidelines, providing everyone with the necessary instruction, information and training.

 

We understand that just one visit can’t ensure lasting health and safety. A generic H&S file, used repeatedly, doesn’t protect you. We believe in tailored solutions to keep your farm and workers safe.

Our services are designed to help you meet legal health and safety requirements seamlessly.

Our Aim: For you to Fulfill your Legal Obligations

Why prioritise farm health and safety?

Prioritising farm health and safety is crucial because it protects the well-being of both farmers and the environment. By implementing proper farm safety protocols and equipment, farmers can prevent accidents and reduce the risk of injuries while also ensuring responsible land management.

  • Farm Health and Safety: Protection of human life

    Protection of human life

    Prioritising health and safety is essential to protect the lives and well-being of farmers, farm workers, and visitors. Farms inherently involve potential hazards, including machinery accidents, falls, animal-related incidents, and exposure to harmful substances. Adhering to robust farm health and safety measures significantly reduces the risk of accidents, injuries, and fatalities, creating a secure environment for all individuals on the farm. By implementing and following proper health and safety protocols, farms demonstrate their commitment to safeguarding the welfare of everyone involved.

  • Farm Health and Safety: Legal compliance

    Legal compliance

    In the UK, farms are subject to health and safety regulations, including the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999. Compliance with these regulations is a legal requirement, and failure to meet health and safety standards can result in severe penalties, fines, and legal liabilities. By adhering to health and safety guidelines, farmers demonstrate their commitment to meeting legal obligations and protecting their workers and visitors.

  • Farm Health and Safety: Employee well-being and morale

    Employee well-being and morale

    Establishing a safe working environment is crucial for enhancing the well-being and job satisfaction of employees. By prioritising health and safety measures, organisations cultivate a positive work culture that nurtures trust and loyalty among employees.

  • Farm Health and Safety: Reputation and public perception

    Reputation and public perception

    Farms that prioritise health and safety establish a positive reputation within their community and the broader public. Customers, suppliers, and other stakeholders are increasingly concerned about the ethical and responsible practices of businesses, including farms.

  • Farm Health and Safety: Risk management and business continuity

    Risk management and business continuity

    Implementing farm health and safety practices helps identify and manage potential risks effectively. By conducting risk assessments, implementing safety protocols, and providing appropriate training, farms can mitigate the likelihood of accidents, property damage, and business disruptions. This ensures continuity of operations and protects the farm's assets and investments.

  • Farm Health and Safety: Financial Benefit of Farm Health and Safety

    Financial Benefit of Farm Health and Safety

    A strong focus on farm health and safety can lead to lower insurance premiums. Also, failure to follow legal compliance can result in penalties, fines, and even legal action. By investing in farm safety measures, farms can ensure compliance, reducing the risk of costly penalties. A strong safety program can help farms avoid expensive litigation resulting from workplace accidents or injuries. By minimising legal risks, farms can protect their financial stability and safeguard their future.