Make safety a priority this harvest season

Harvest season is often more demanding on both producers and their equipment due to warmer weather and pressure to work longer hours at a faster pace.

WorkSafe Chief Health and Safety Officer Sam Jenkin said fatigue and incidents involving vehicles and machinery remained a significant contributor to workplace harm on farms, with many incidents involving experienced farmers performing everyday tasks alone.

“We know that fatigued workers are at a higher risk of serious incidents, particularly while working alone with machinery, making rest and focus even more important during the demands of the harvest season,” Mr Jenkin said.

“The result can be deadly when workers don’t have enough time to recover each day, especially for older farmers whose physical capabilities may have changed over time.”

Fatigue is not just feeling a bit sleepy or tired, but repeatedly pushing beyond mental and physical limits – which can severely impact reaction time, co-ordination, concentration, and mental health.

Fourth-generation Wimmera farmer Scott Arnold is urging others working the land to be honest with themselves, their colleagues and loved ones about when they need a break.

“There's a stigma or like a badge of honour that it's good to work long hours, but it's not – it only increases the risk,” Scott said.

“The paddock and the crop is still there tomorrow, but if something happens to you, you're not.”

The agriculture industry continues to be over-represented in workplace fatalities, regularly accounting for more than 10 percent of deaths despite making up just two per cent of the state’s workforce.

Mr Jenkin said a majority related to the use or maintenance of farm machinery and vehicles, including the three confirmed work-related deaths on Victorian farms so far this year – each involving reversing tractors.

“Sadly, WorkSafe continues to respond to too many incidents with vehicles and machinery, including a tragic death at Foxhow this week,” he said.

“Simple measures – such as having daily safety conversations, planning ahead, ensuring equipment is well-maintained and guarded and letting someone know where you are and when you’re due back – can all make a big difference at this time of the year.”

Employers can manage hazards and risks on farms this harvest by:

• Planning ahead to identify potential issues, including weather conditions and lack of rest;
• Training staff in the safe operation of machines and equipment, regardless of their level of experience;
• Using side-by-sides safely, including seatbelts, helmets, and appropriate loads;
• Regularly servicing and inspecting machines and equipment;
• Checking-in with those working alone to monitor potential issues or safety concerns; and
• Preparing for the fire danger period by ensuring firebreaks are in place and equipment sites are clear of flammable materials.