A new Victorian WorkSafe campaign is encouraging the state’s farmers to see safety as an investment that protects lives, improves productivity and strengthens long-term success.
Deputy Premier, Ben Carroll launched the Safety – it does more than keep you safe campaign, which outlines how simple safety improvements can make farms safer, more efficient and more sustainable.
“It’s tragic to see farmers continuing to be overrepresented in workplace fatalities,” said Mr Carroll.
“This campaign is about sharing the tangible benefits of simple safety improvements. I encourage those in the industry to look out for each other and share safety advice, knowledge and learnings, because it can make a difference.”
The $2.8 million campaign will run across television, radio, print, outdoor, digital and social media and features real Victorian farmers sharing their own experiences.
Fifth-generation farmer, Rob Abbott, who runs Mount William Station at Willaura, is one of them. After upgrading his cattle yards, Mr Abbott says he found processing cattle became safer, quicker and less stressful for his animals – improving both safety and productivity.
Agriculture workers continue to be over-represented in workplace fatalities, accounting for around 10% of annual workplace deaths despite making up just two per cent of Victoria’s workforce.
Farm vehicles such as tractors, quad bikes and trucks account for almost half of those deaths. Livestock incidents remain another leading cause.
“Farming is tough work with inherent risks, but avoiding these risks isn’t impossible. When safety is front-of-mind and appropriate systems are in place to protect people, every tragedy is preventable,” said WorkSafe Chief Health and Safety Officer, Sam Jenkin.
