HSE Shock Decision To Stop Farm Inspections

The Health & Safety Executive (HSE) recently announced that they will stop routine farm inspections. They will still carry out investigative inspections triggered by major accidents, but their focus will now shift to occupational health issues. This move is highly concerning. The HSE’s own statistics show that between 1st April 2023 and 31st March 2024, UK agriculture recorded 32 fatalities. These included the deaths of three children under the age of two. May 2023 was also the deadliest month in 15 years, with 11 fatalities.

Ceres Rural Partner and Technical Member of IOSH, Robert Gazely, says, “Ceres Rural is championing farm and estate health and safety, advising on both policy and practice. The HSE’s cessation of farm inspections is disappointing and sends the wrong message at the wrong time. We will continue advising our clients on health and safety matters, particularly after the stresses of the wet winter and late spring, and as we approach the busiest period of the year for arable farms at harvest.”

Read our most recent health & safety bulletin here.