Driving for work

I was recently invited to a workshop held by the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) in conjunction with the Road Safety Authority (RSA) and An Garda Síochána. The main theme was the safety of those who drive for work and the impact of their driving on others. It was a thought-provoking event, capturing the attention of over 200 delegates, evidenced by the fact that the room was still full at the end of the four-hour session.
The results of research into the causes of serious injuries and fatalities to those who drive for work also apply to those working in agriculture, even though driving on the land escapes many of the legal requirements applied to driving for work on public roads.

Medication

Research shows that not only recreational drugs, but certain prescribed and over-the-counter drugs can seriously affect the ability to drive or operate machinery safely. The Central Statistics Office (CSO) shows that in 2023 the average age of farmers was 59.4 years with almost 38 per cent being 65 years or older. This age group is, perhaps, more likely to be taking prescribed medication that can affect their ability to drive safely, due to drowsiness, dizziness, or slowed reaction times; although the ability of drivers of any age can be affected by medication. Please heed the advice of medical practitioners and pharmacists when it comes to taking medication and driving or operating machinery.

Alcohol

The workshop also highlighted concerns surrounding alcohol and the amount still in the blood stream the morning after, potentially tipping you over the limit permitted to drive. Coupled with certain medications – even over-the-counter ones – this situation is exacerbated. We need a strong awareness campaign to highlight these often-overlooked dangers. When investigating serious farm accidents, the HSA should also look for evidence of medication or medication-alcohol combinations to ascertain if these are contributory factors.

FSPAC

The Farm Safety Partnership Advisory Committee (FSPAC) also met in December, where we reviewed the 17 fatalities reported up to November 30, as well as the countless injuries. Below, I outline just some of the causes. 

ATVs/quads
Quads are a useful piece of machinery around the farm but they have been associated with injuries and fatalities.
Unlevel terrain can result in overturning and serious injury to the driver. Since November 2023, training has been compulsory for ATV operators, as is the use of protective headgear but it is difficult to enforce.

Roofs
Before carrying out repairs on any roof, it is vital to assess the risk. Sadly, there are regular accidents and fatalities involving falls through Perspex roofs, which perish over time and cannot take any weight.

Cattle handling
Every month, tragedies occur involving the handling of cattle, particularly involving older farmers who are less agile. The number-one rule is to know your limitations and don’t handle cattle alone; get help or risk serious injury.

Brakes
Not applying the handbrake or not maintaining brakes regularly results in serious injuries and fatalities. What time does it save when you don’t apply the handbrake? That split second saved could cost you your life or someone else’s. Not maintaining brakes is utter madness.

There are many lessons to be learned, but I believe much of it is in your own hands. By demonstrating safe work practices, you can significantly influence the attitudes and behaviours of the next generation – your kids and grandkids. You can stop farm accidents from becoming a self-fulfilling prophecy.