The ESRI report, while startling, effectively highlights the necessity for the introduction of new and improved policies in farm safety in Ireland.  

I would encourage policy–makers to look to Northern Ireland where, for example, farmers that employ anyone on their farm are subject to Article 4 of the Health and Safety at Work (Northern Ireland) Order, which requires them to “ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety and welfare at work of all his employees.” The first step farmers should seriously consider is conducting a formal risk assessment and recording the results. Indeed if a farmer is employing anyone else to assist them, there is a legal obligation under Article 3 of the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2000 to conduct a risk assessment.

Regardless of the legal requirement this is good practice and will serve to kick–start the process of famers giving thought to the risks they face. Article 13 of the same Regulations also directs famers to take employees’ capabilities into consideration when assigning tasks and provide adequate health and safety training. Farms must have well designed and maintained facilities accompanied by adequate numbers of trained and competent workers before beginning work with animals.

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