During Farm Safety Week (19-23 July) Young Farmers' Clubs of Ulster is encouraging the farming community to ‘wake up’ to the issue of tiredness during their daily routines.
Tiredness is a normal part of everyday life. It is particularly relevant to farming life in Northern Ireland in the summer period and during the silage season with farmers often working long into the evening to complete tasks.
HSENI Chief Executive Robert Kidd, said: “Tiredness and fatigue can have serious consequences within the farming community, and can lead to minor and major injuries and even fatality. HSENI is encouraging farmers and contractors to consider their working patterns and ensure that sufficient breaks are taken to combat the issue of tiredness.
Over working can lead to conditions such as musculoskeletal disorders, work-related stress and decreased awareness which in turn can lead to incidents, so it is important not to underestimate the risks of tiredness.
Advice on workplace occupational health issues can be found on the HSENI at https://www.hseni.gov.uk/topic/workplace-health
