Farm safety remains a focus, with new production season underway

“Everyone has to upgrade their 1A licences to be able to drive a semi-trailer truck, and get their medicals,” she said. “We make sure it’s done throughout the year, not just at seeding or harvest [time].”

Miller added for health and safety reasons, everyone ensures they have a supply of water with them when heading into the field and in the shop, so they stay hydrated. And, while they do work long hours when needed, the team changes shifts to split up the job.

As well, Miller noted there are no children permitted on the farm at any times, so there is no risk of young people being anywhere near the operations.

Agriculture programs specialist Karen Smith with the Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture, said all parties need to be involved when it comes to following rules for safety on the farm, especially during the busy seasons.

“I think it’s important to remember that everyone is responsible for farm safety,” she told battlefordsNOW. “It’s not just one person on the farm. Everyone has to be involved in the conversation, and everyone needs to do their part.”

Avoid fatigue

“Farmers are working long hours so I think they need to remember not to rush when doing their daily maintenance tasks. And, to take a break if needed, even if it’s just for five minutes to get a quick change of scenery and take a quick breath or two,” Smith said. “Taking those little five minute breaks every now and again, just to come in with a fresh mindset is always a good idea.”

According to the province, about 13 people are fatally injured on Saskatchewan farms each year, with most involving machinery and equipment; as well, most incidents take place in the farm yard, based on statistics provided by the Saskatchewan Farm Injury Surveillance Program at the University of Saskatchewan.

Smith said it’s important for farm managers to have a safety plan in place, and to review it on a regular basis, not only with employees but with family members as well.

The plan should cover a wide range of topics; from operating equipment to handling chemicals, and basic everyday activities people undertake.

“People often have an internal plan, the unspoken rules. But it is always encouraged to get it on paper,” she said. “So that everyone is clear, everyone is on the same page, and knows where everyone stands.”

Smith said mental health is also an issue for producers and their families, especially during the pandemic. She encourages those struggling to call the Farm Stress Line at 1-800-667-4442 if they need help. The service is confidential and available 24 hours a day/seven days a week.

“If they are experiencing mental stress or a higher level of stress, that line is available for people to use if needed,” she said.

Watch for machinery

The agriculture expert is asking the public to be vigilant around agricultural equipment on the roads at this time of year.

Motorists are being reminded farmers will be busy moving more of their equipment to the field.

Smith said drivers need to keep in mind larger machines will be moving slowly on the roadways, so they should keep their distance between them as much as possible, for everyone’s safety.

“If the public do encounter farm equipment on the road, remember to slow down,” Smith said. “The farmers will move over when they are able to safely do so.”

She asks drivers to be patient and pass with caution.

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Angela.Brown@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @battlefordsnow

by Angela Brown

Farm safety remains a focus, with new production season underway

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