Kiama's Farmers to Benefit from New Safety Manual

The NSW Government has launched new guide designed to help farmers improve health and safety both on their properties and across their operations.

Member for Kiama, Gareth Ward MP, said the guide would help farmers reduce harmful incidents by applying common-sense advice which could be applied across the whole sector.

“This publication was developed by farmers for everyone who goes onto a farm – whether they be the owner, a worker, a family member, a visitor or a contractor,” Mr Ward said.

“It gives great advice on how people on farms can get the most out of their systems, including how to manage bullying and violence, looking out for drug and alcohol abuse, quad bike safety and protection from noise.

“Work, health and safety is everyone’s business. Even if you are self-employed you are legally responsible for the health and safety of everyone who works on your farm including, family members, visitors and customers.

“In 2017 the government launched the Agriculture Work Health and Safety Sector Plan and sought the commitment of industry, working with SafeWork NSW, to take responsibility for delivering safer and healthier workplaces. This is a practical initiative working towards improving safety across the sector.

“Agriculture is a $12 billion industry employing 81,000 people across the state and we are committed to improving safety and productivity across the sector,” Mr Ward said.

The SafeWork A-Z Farm Safety Guide can be downloaded at www.safework.nsw.gov.au, or you can order a copy by calling 13 10 50.