The deaths of 146 people, including 36 children, on Irish farms in the last seven years were described by the Health and Safety Authority yesterday as "shocking statistics".
Announcing a series of events with Teagasc, the agriculture and food development authority, to reduce deaths and injuries on farms, the HSA said there were 24 deaths on Irish farms last year alone, and seven of these were children.
"Simply put, an Irish farm is one of the most dangerous workplaces in the country," said the announcement from the authority yesterday.
The events, entitled "Think Safety & Take Action," begin in the west with a series of lectures and safety demonstrations in Mellows College, Athenry, Co Galway, next Tuesday.
In the east, a similar programme is being held in Kildalton College, Piltown, Co Kilkenny, on Thursday, November 7th. Admission to both events is free.
Mr Tom Beegan, director-general of the HSA, said prevention of accidents did not just happen but demanded time and effort. Being safety-conscious did not cost a lot of money.
Mr Frank Laffey, national health and safety specialist with Teagasc and chairman of the recently formed Farm Safety Action Group, said the aim was to encourage and challenge farmers to improve safety practices.
"Last year 24 people died, and a further 3,600 were injured in farm accidents. If these events result in the prevention of death, injury and anguish on even one farm, they will be well worthwhile," he said.
"Farmers and their spouses attending these events will be given critical help in developing and maintaining a safety mind-set," he added.
In addition to safety practices with machinery, livestock, slurry and chemicals, they will also focus on proper lifting practices. Permanent injury and disability resulting from poor lifting practices is widespread.