Lawyer Urges Employers To ‘Do All They Can’ To Keep Workers Safe

Almost two thirds of Scots killed at work last year were employed in the Agricultural sector, according to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

Analysis of figures revealed this week have shown that fifteen workplace fatalities between April 2010 and March 2011 in Scotland, nine were in Agriculture. Six involved farm workers and were linked to transport issues, like being hit by a moving vehicle, or trapped in an overturned vehicle.

Elaine Russell, a Partner who specialises in workplace accidents and illness at Irwin Mitchell Scotland, said: “These figures are a matter of considerable concern. Every employer has a duty to ensure their staff are able to work safely, wherever they’re employment, and it’s a real worry to see that people employed in the Agricultural sector are at a higher risk.”

She continues: “I want to urge employers to do all they can to help keep their workers safe. Vigorous risk assessment and equipment checks must be carried out to help prevent worrying trends, like the frequency of accidents involving transport from reoccurring.

“The Agricultural sector is vital for Scotland, and steps must be taken to protect the people who work hard to maintain it.”