More than 300 agriculture, forestry and countryside students, ranging from those studying T Levels to Level 3 apprenticeships and degrees, attended a health and safety event at Reaseheath College in Cheshire.
The students visited six stations throughout the day covering topics such as electricity safety, animal handling and safety, and tractors and trailers – the latter of which was delivered by NFU expert Stuart Head.
Each station involved an interactive 20-minute discussion with the chance for students to ask questions.
By delivering these sessions, the NFU is reinforcing its commitment, alongside that of the industry, to improve agriculture’s safety record.
Speaking about the event, NFU Deputy President David Exwood said: “Our sector must work on improving the culture of farm safety, and when the next generation takes safety seriously, it changes the culture for everyone.”
Tractors, trailers and the law
NFU Farm Safety and Transport Adviser Stuart Head covered a range of areas concerning taking tractors and trailers on the highway in a session tailored specifically for young drivers.
The topics Stuart covered included age restrictions on agricultural machinery, weight restrictions, speed limits, slow moving vehicles, mobile phones and unsafe practices.
Stuart found the students to be “really engaged” throughout the session.
“Our sector must work on improving the culture of farm safety.”
NFU Deputy President David Exwood
Stuart said: “Some things are easier said than done, but by forming good habits early on in a person’s career, they can become second nature.”
Hearing from the students
Level 2 Land and Wildlife student Tom said: “We have so many accidents in the industry, it is unbelievable... People need to have a better mentality of these things.”
Degree student Eli spoke of the importance of educating young people in farm safety, while Land and Wildlife Level 2 student Emily talked about how these lessons need to be part of everyday life on the farm.
Overall, the students felt that this was a great chance to learn important farm safety lessons they could implement in day-to-day farm activities.
Changing the culture
NFU Deputy President David Exwood said: “Educating young people about safety is vital. Whether you’re experienced or new to the job, risks are always present.
“Nothing costs more than a serious accident or death in a business, and the effect on family members, colleagues and the community is devastating.
“We all have a responsibility to protect ourselves, our families and our teams to make smart choices on farm.
“Let’s lead by example, speak up when something’s not right and put safety first in simple, cost-effective ways that means everyone goes home safe at the end of the working day.”
