The Farm Safety Partnership Advisory Committee (FSPAC) of the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) is urging farmers across the country to prioritise tractor safety during Tractor Safety Week, which takes place from Monday, May 25.

Tractors remain central to farm work but continue to be associated with serious and fatal incidents, according to the HSA.

In the last 10 years, 38 fatalities involving tractors on farms were recorded, while vehicle-related incidents remain the leading cause of work-related fatalities in the agriculture sector.

Next week's campaign will focus on practical steps farmers can take to reduce risks and improve safety when using tractors.

Speaking on the campaign, chairperson of the FSPAC, Ciaran Roche said: “We know from experience that many incidents involving tractors can be prevented.

"By focusing on key areas like maintenance, visibility, safe operation and fatigue, Tractor Safety Week is about giving farmers clear and practical guidance that can help keep them safe.”

“This is a collective effort across the sector, so we’re asking everyone involved in farming to support the campaign, share the messages and play their part in improving safety standards,” he added.

Tractor safety campaign

The campaign will emphasise the importance of:

Keeping tractors well maintained and free from hazards;
Operating machinery safely at all times;
Being aware of blind spots and visibility risks;
Avoiding operating tractors when tired.

Senior agriculture inspector with the HSA, Ger Hartnett said: “Tractors are essential to farm life, but they also present very real dangers if they’re not used and maintained safely.

"Tractor Safety Week is about reminding farmers to stop, think and take simple steps that can prevent life-changing injuries or fatalities.

“Simple actions like carrying out regular maintenance, staying alert while operating machinery and being aware of blind spots can make a significant difference," he said.

The HSA is urging farmers to take the time to review their own practices and make safety a priority.

Throughout the week, a range of key themes will highlight common risks associated with tractor use, including maintenance, safe operation and visibility, as well as the impact of fatigue.

Particular attention will also be given to the risks faced by older farmers and young people.

A central message of Tractor Safety Week is for farmers to download and review the HSA’s 'Tractor Safety and You' publication, which provides practical guidance on the safe use of tractors and farm machinery.

The campaign will be supported by a coordinated programme of media, social media and stakeholder activity, with farm organisations and industry partners encouraged to share the key messages and support the initiative throughout the week.