HSA focus on farmer health and - Kilkenny Farming

The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) has begun a week long inspection campaign focusing on health and wellbeing of farmers.

The Farm Safety Partnership Advisory Committee (FSPAC), an advisory committee to the HSA Board, has developed guidance on health and wellbeing for farmers which includes simple tips to stay healthy and well, such as being more physically active, eating a healthy diet, and minding your mental health.

Farmers are at higher risk of certain health and wellness conditions due to the nature of their work. These include: Heart disease, stroke, being overweight/ obese, back pain, stress, mental health issues, lung issues, hearing loss, skin problems and cancers.

Guidance
HSA inspectors will be identifying and discussing the health risks associated with farming during this campaign and will be promoting the guidance and resources available.

“It’s critically important for farmers to recognise any health problems early and get treatment from their healthcare practitioner as early as possible,” said Darren Arkins, Programme Manager, Occupational Health, HSA.

“Poor health and wellbeing can also increase the risk of having a serious or fatal injury on your farm. Health and wellbeing must remain a priority for any farmer,” he went on to say.