Dairy Australia launched a new Farm Safety Starter Kit today as part of National Farm Safety Week.
Announcing the launch of the kit Dairy Australia Managing Director, Ian Halliday said, “Safety must be first and foremost in everyone’s mind when working around a farm. We must try to ensure everyone thinks ‘safety’ before starting on a job.”
The Farm Safety Starter Kit includes a set of Quick Safety Scans that can be used to check for potential hazards and risks on the farm.
It also has a Safety System Snapshot, which will enable farmers to check their farm safety systems against the current Work Health and Safety legislation.
The Farm Safety Starter Kit will be followed by a comprehensive Farm Safety Manual, which is currently undergoing trials.
“It’s a good time to focus on how we can prevent future work-related deaths, injuries and illnesses,” Mr Halliday said. “Unfortunately, 2016 has been a horror year for deaths on dairy farms. Five people have died already and we are only half way through the year.
“It is a time to remember those who have died from a work-related injury or illness,” he said. “By raising awareness of work health and safety and taking action we can help prevent further injuries and deaths.”
ADF Acting President, David Basham said to retain a highly skilled workforce a culture shift is required.
“Dairy farms are not typical workplaces. There are many potential risks and stressful situations – particularly because many farms operate with the added pressure of running a small, family business,” Mr Basham said.