HSE Shock Decision To Stop Farm Inspections

The Health & Safety Executive (HSE) recently announced they are to stop farm inspections.  They will continue investigative inspections triggered by major accidents, but will otherwise be focusing on occupational health issues. It is highly concerning that the HSE are ceasing positive and proactive interventions, especially as their statistics for the period from 1^st April 2023 to 31^st March 2024 show there were 32 fatalities associated with UK agriculture. This included the deaths of three children under the age of two, as well as May 2023 being the deadliest single month (11 fatalities) for 15 years.

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 gives the industry the wrong message at the wrong time. We will continue advising our clients on health and safety matters, particularly following the stresses associated with the wet winter and late spring, and approaching the peak time of year for arable farms at harvest.”