New training on offer to help workers keep safe on the farm
HSE supports new courses as it launches its Better Backs Campaign
New training courses to prevent the risk of back injuries caused by lifting and carrying in farming have been launched with the support of the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).
In agriculture, many carrying and lifting tasks are a potential problem. If they are not carried out safely then there is a risk of sustaining an injury such as low back pain, joint injuries and repetitive strain injuries.
These new courses coincide with the launch of HSE's Better Backs campaign. Back pain is one of the most common health problems in the UK – 80% of people will suffer from it at some point in their lives and one in every six days off work is due to back pain, leading to 4.5 million lost working days a year.
Land-based training organisation Lantra Awards has launched three new training courses to help farmers and farm workers carry out safe lifting. These highly participative courses provide candidates with an awareness of the risks associated with manual handling and how the use of safe techniques can help reduce the likelihood of injury.
For the first time, there is also a training course aimed at employers, managers and supervisors. This includes the requirements of The Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992, how to carry out risk assessments, and solutions to typical manual handling problems including the use of lifting aids.
HSE has worked closely with Lantra Awards to develop the content and materials for these courses.
Alastair Mitchell, from HSE's Agriculture and Food Sector attended one of the first courses at a fruit farm near Tillington in Herefordshire.
Alastair said:
"The course was organised by the manager of the farm as all staff undertake a variety of carrying and lifting tasks as part of the apple growing process. Although the nature of agricultural work such as this has changed over the years due to increased mechanisation, farmers and farm workers are still at risk of sustaining serious back related injuries.
"Musculoskeletal disorders from back related problems are the most common occupational illness in Great Britain, affecting 1.0 million people a year. This causes much individual pain and suffering. Also if you are not fit for physical work because of a back problem, the farm business itself will inevitably be affected. Therefore training in safe lifting techniques is essential to help to reduce unnecessary suffering and to maintain a viable business.
"Those working in agriculture who would like to find out more about the courses should contact their local Lantra Awards training provider, contact Lantra Awards directly on 024 7641 9703 or visit www.lantra-awards.co.uk"
