The $2.8 million campaign runs across television, radio, print, outdoor, digital and social media. It 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 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 about 10 per cent 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.
WorkSafe provides practical, industry-designed guidance to help farmers identify risks and make meaningful improvements on their properties.
Farmers are encouraged to talk with others in the industry about what works, share lessons learned and take simple steps that can prevent tragedy while improving the way they operate.
The resources available online include an excellent video by noted US animal behaviourist, Temple Grandin.
For more information visit worksafe.vic.gov.au/agriculture
WorkSafe Chief Health and Safety Officer Sam Jenkin acknowledged that 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.”
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