Kilkenny farm alert - Design your farmyard with safety in mind

Teagasc is placing a strong focus on safe farmyard design, following on from farm safety week.
Safe farmyards are developed by careful thought and detailed design.

Farmyards must be functional for livestock and crop enterprises, but, farmers are reminded, they must also facilitate safe efficient movement of people, livestock and farm machinery.

Clear separation of people, livestock and machinery must be in place throughout the farmyard to safely manage farm tasks.

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“Teagasc advisors across the country are highly trained to help farmers maximise the efficiency and safety of their farmyards,” said Tom Fallon, Teagasc Farm Buildings and Infrastructure specialist.

“Teagasc advisors seek to help each individual farmer with decisions around development of their farmyard in the short and longer term to improve work routines, labour efficiency and safety.”

Francis Bligh, Teagasc Health and Safety Specialist said: “Good facilities have a direct positive impact on safety and efficient management of the farm. I would strongly encourage farmers to plan ahead and to talk to their advisors about their ideas for their farmyard, and to explore possible sources of government funding to assist with the cost of works.”

The Accelerated Capital Allowances for farm safety scheme allows farmers to write off 50% of the cost of eligible equipment each year over two years, instead of the standard eight years. The list of eligible equipment was expanded this year.

“The accelerated capital allowance scheme complements the 60% grant aid which is available under the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, (DAFM) Targeted Agriculture Modernisation Schemes (TAMS 3) for safety-related investments. I would encourage all farmers to assess the opportunities under the scheme.”