ON an ongoing basis, the Irish Thoroughbred Breeders Association (ITBA) encourages breeders to farm safely. This is done through its annual education programme, which always includes a series of QQI accredited workshops to bring home to breeders the many dangers associated with farming.

ITBA’s Kerry Ryan said “With this in mind, we plan to roll out a series of regionally based health and safety workshops over the coming number of weeks. Given the fact we are in the middle of farm safety week, it is a timely reminder for all Irish thoroughbred breeders to embrace farm safety.

“We are engaging with a number of racecourses across the country to host this series of health and safety workshops, the first of which is Gowran Park. This may take the format of a series of mini modules with elements of classroom learning as well as some “field based” learning, all of which will be undertaken with full compliance of the latest Government’s Covid-19 requirements. In order for us to deliver a tailored programme of workshops, we would appreciate breeders’ contribution and input in terms of what health and safety topics they would to see included.”

Should breeders wish to put forward topics, which are relevant to stud farm operations, please email Kerry Ryan to kryan@itba.ie by Friday 31st July 2020.

This information is based on the Health and Safety Authority’s recommendations on health and safety in the general workplace, construction workplaces and agricultural workplaces, which stud farms fall under. ITBA encourages breeders to adopt and incorporate these measures into their health and safety procedures.

Working in adverse weather conditions

Where possible employees will not be exposed to adverse weather conditions. Good drainage should be in place to avoid water build up.

Ensure correct clothing is worn at all times i.e. trousers, safety boots and rain gear where appropriate, ensure that employees are aware the danger of the sun and that sun cream is worn when applicable.

Working with horses/animals

All employees must be trained in the correct handling of horses/livestock and should not attempt to handle an animal without such training and supervision where required. Those working with horses should be trained and receive theory and practical demonstrations on all aspects of horse handling and management.

Noise

Exposure to high levels of noise, either continuously or as a loud sudden ‘bang’ from equipment such as cartridge operated tools, can have a number of physiological and psychological effects on workers including stress tinnitus and if exposed to high noise levels over long periods of time, permanent loss of hearing can occur. High noise levels can also interfere with communications in the workplace, leading to an increased risk of accidents. When working on a stud farm, employees should always wear protective ear muffs when operating machinery such as leaf blowers or tractors.

Repetitive strain injury (RSI)

Repetitive strain injury can occur if motions are repeated frequently (e.g. every few seconds) and for prolonged periods such as an eight-hour shift, resulting in the accumulation of fatigue and muscle strain. Effects of repetitive motions are increased when awkward postures and forceful exertions are involved which is common when working in stables and with horses.

Dust and spores

Sources of dust and spores include mouldy hay, straw or grain and droppings. Exposure to these materials can cause both short short-term effects (including irritation, bronchitis and breathlessness), and long-term effects (including asthma, chronic bronchitis, shortness of breath, weight loss, farmer’s lung and sensitisation). Always wear the proper PPE.

Tractors, farm vehicles and ATVs

Tractors account for the highest proportion of fatalities and accidents in agriculture each year. Vehicle operation, being crushed, struck, pinned under or falling from the vehicle are the causes of vehicle accidents. Those at risk include persons using the tractor and those who may be in the area where the tractor is operating.

Equipment and machinery

Getting ‘caught’ in running equipment or machinery; inexperienced workers are at significant risk of such injuries.

Lifting and carrying

Referred to as ‘manual handling’ you can injure yourself if you lift and carry anything incorrectly from a box of stationery to a bucket of feed or using a wheelbarrow incorrectly.

Adequate lighting

Adequate lighting must be provided when work is being carried out after dark or inside buildings where lighting is poor especially in the winter months.

Chemicals

All sorts of workplace chemicals may cause harm, from soaps in the washroom that irritate the skin, to toners in photocopiers, to the more dangerous prescription medication, hormone treatments, etc, procedures on same should be written up and all employees be aware of these work practices. It is important to wear proper PPE when handling these chemicals.

Working with hot substances or objects

Burns and scalds – typically these injuries involve hot water or steam; hot fats, oils or other food products; and equipment such as pots, pans, or trays. Working with welding equipment can also be a risk in this area. Heating equipment with regards treating horses would also come under this category.

Remember when working with horses it is extremely important to constantly think ahead and never take risks. Before doing a job or task think about any possible dangers – could the hazard be eliminated? Is the job necessary, or could it be changed to make it safer? Is the procedure essential, are there safer alternatives (albeit more expensive)?

If the job cannot be eliminated or modified, how can it be made safer? Can you use stocks? Can you sedate the horse? Would a more experienced handler reduce the risk?

What training and supervision is needed? Should there be specific training involving horse handling and behaviour training? Are any staff ignoring safety rules and putting themselves or others at risk? Are staff using mobile phones while carrying out procedures or driving? Do you need to provide additional personal protective equipment (PPE)?

By simply considering the above questions accidents around the farm or stud can be avoided.