International Expert to address National Farm Safety Seminar
2 July 2007
An internationally renowned expert on accident prevention will speak at the forthcoming National Seminar on Occupational Safety and Health in Agriculture. Dr Juha Suutarinen of Agrifood Research, Finland will outline the key findings of a major study in Finland on the relationships between farm management and causes of farm accidents. In a further effort to assist Irish farmers reduce the number of accidents on farms Dr. Juha Suutarinen will outline the conclusions from a Finnish study on accident prevention.
The newly appointed Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment with special responsibility for Labour Affairs, Billy Kelleher TD, will officially open the event which takes place on Thursday, 12 July 2007, at the Abbeyleix Manor Hotel, Abbeyleix, Co. Laois. IFA President, Padraig Walshe will chair the opening session of the seminar. This event is being organised by Teagasc and the Health and Safety Authority in conjunction with the National Farm Safety Partnership Advisory Committee which is representative of farming and state bodies with a role related to farm safety.
John McNamara, Teagasc Health and Safety Officer said "the aim of the seminar is to consider new approaches to cutting the enormous burden of tragedy, suffering and financial ruin associated with farm accidents and ill health on Irish farms. About one-third of all workplace deaths take place on farms while 1,800 accidents causing serious injury occur each year."
Dr. Anne Finnegan will present the findings of her recent PhD on case studies from three risk groups on Irish farms. Pat Griffin, Senior Inspector in charge of farm safety and health policy at the Health and Safety Authority will outline the approach required by farmers by the Safety Health and Welfare at Work Act, 2005. County Laois farmer Kieran Phelan and his family members will stress the importance they place on managing safety and health on their farm.
At the seminar nationally accredited FETAC Certificates on Farm Safety and Health will be presented to 70 farmers from County Laois.
The seminar runs from 11.00 am to 3.00 pm and is particularly relevant to farmers, health and safety practitioners, agricultural contractors and anyone with an interest in safety and health in Agriculture. The seminar is sponsored by FBD Insurance plc, admission is free and lunch will be provided. Booking is not required. Further information can be obtained from Teagasc or the Health and Safety Authority.
