HSE Warns Against Use of Agricultural Machines for Transport
The Health and Safety Executive has warned against the use of agricultural machines for any purpose other than their intended one, following an accident that occurred on a farm.
In the accident, an employee lost his life as he fell off the machine he was travelling on.
The accident occurred in 2007 on an organic farm. Employee Anthony Cripps was riding in the bucket of an agricultural machine (telehandler) along with his colleague. He was a market gardener employed by Daylesford Organic Farms Limited based in Gloucestershire. At the time of the accident, he was engaged in collecting elderflowers from hedgerows at the farm.
While Cripps and his colleague were travelling in this machine across the farm, Cripps lost balance and suddenly fell backwards. Unfortunately, he fell right under the offside wheels of the machine and he was crushed to death.
Following this tragic incident, Daylesford Organic Farms Limited has been taken to task for negligence of health and safety rules. The organic farm pleaded guilty to the charges during court proceedings. It was ordered to pay a fine of £65,000 and additional costs of £27,500. The hearing took place at Gloucester Crown Court.
Defence attorney Adrian Darbishire said in this regard that the company has accepted responsibility in the accident and it hopes to bring its health and safety standards to best levels in the industry. In September this year, two other fatalities resulted from telehandlers, though the victims were not riding in them.
Staff and management must be fully aware of and comply with health and safety regulations. Find out about the range of IOSH Training available – click on IOSH Working Safely, which can assist companies in training staff to be aware of the proper health and safety procedures within their organisations health and safety management system.
