Will you be visiting the National Ploughing Championships this month? If so, make sure to pop over to the HSA stand and say hello – just tell them the AG MAG team sent you!
Next week, the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) is once again putting farm safety front and centre at the National Ploughing Championships, one of the biggest events in Irish farming. With the rise in farm accidents, especially those involving machinery, the HSA is focused on making farms safer for everyone.
A big highlight this year is quad bike safety. Quad bikes, or ATVs, are fun to drive, but they can be really dangerous if not used properly. The HSA is teaching farmers and their families how to use quads safely. Since November 2023, new rules mean anyone riding a quad must wear a helmet and get training. This is important because falling off a quad without a helmet can cause serious injuries, and knowing how to drive one safely can save lives.
At the HSA stand (Block 2, Row 11, Stand 170), there will be live demonstrations showing how to stay safe when using tractors, machinery, and working at heights. These demonstrations are especially important because most farm accidents are caused by machinery. The HSA will be explaining the best ways to use equipment, such as making sure safety guards are in place on tractors and other machines, and why regular checks are so important.
The HSA also wants to remind everyone that farm safety isn’t just for adults. Whether you live on a farm or are just visiting, there are many dangers that you need to watch out for, especially when it comes to machinery and animals. The National Ploughing Championships is the perfect place to learn these skills and understand how everyone can work together to make farms safer.
So, if you're visiting the event, don’t forget to stop by the HSA stand to learn more about how to stay safe while working on or visiting a farm. Farm safety is serious business, but with the right knowledge and tools, farms can be a safe and fun place for everyone.
CLICK ON THE PICTURE BELOW TO LET US KNOW IF YOU WILL BE ATTENDING THE NPA 2024
.jpg)