With spring calving season now underway on many Irish farms, farmers are being called on to be particularly vigilant to ensure their own safety.

Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA) National Farm Family chairperson Caroline Farrell made the calls as the busy calving season progresses.

Heifers and cows can be unpredictable at calving time and may hit out without warning, Farrell warned.

Commenting, the IFA chairperson said: “The calving cow is the most dangerous animal on Irish farms and should not be trusted.

“Spring is the busiest time of year on many Irish farms – farmers work around the clock, often needing to be up several times a night to check on animals.

“This can lead to severe tiredness, restricting a farmer’s ability to react quickly,” Farrell warned.

More details on farm safety can be found on the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) website here.