Developing a health and safety plan and work culture is key in keeping everyone on farms safe says New Zealand’s leading farm consultants, AgSafe NZ.
AgSafe NZ specialises in consulting with rural sectors to prepare hazard management programmes and safety plans. “We work hard to ensuring that everyone who works on farms comes home safely at the end of every day,” says Jim Findlay, Rural Consultant for AgSafe New Zealand Ltd.
The purpose of a health and safety plan is to ensure that everyone on the farm is conscience about safety and hazards and risks are identified and managed. It is also to ensure that everyone knows what they are meant to be doing, is trained for the jobs they do, equipment is regularly serviced workers wellbeing and environment is monitored.
Managing risks and hazards on farm is the responsibility of the whole team. “Leading by example by showing your team that safe practices are required and are part of your normal day to day operation is a great way to ensure that everyone follows your farms health and safety plan,” advises Jim.
It is key to remember that a health and safety plan is a living document and as changes happen on farm, the risks and management practices for these need to put in, old ones taken out, and changes documented. When reviewing the plan, we will consider the following:
- Any success in achieving health and safety objectives.
- Any incidents or accidents that have happened.
- Any changes to that farming operation, such as people or equipment that could impact on the health and safety.
- Any updates in legislation or recognised good practice.
“We advise that you talk regularly with all workers and ensure that everyone understands how things are to be done. Discuss with your team out what farm activities, equipment or features have the potential to cause harm and record these with your staff.” adds James.
This is a fantastic way to get the whole team involved, gives everyone a feeling shared accountability and you are more likely to get your team committed to health and safety when everyone feels involved in the process.
A health and safety plan provides everyone working on your farm with clear-cut guidance for tasks and responsibilities and ensures you are completely compliant with current workplace law. AgSafe offers you independent and unbiased view on the legislation and will assist you in understanding these issues and remain compliant.
If you are looking to get your farm or rural business up to code then contact the friendly experts at AgSafe NZ.
About AgSafe:
AgSafe NZ is proudly Waikato based and understands the local farming environment. Jim Findlay has been a rural consultant involved in farm safety and systems for 35 years.
Contact AgSafe NZ Ltd:
Phone: 027-2872886
Email: jamestfindlay@gmail.com
Website: http://agsafe.nz/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AgSafe-NZ-1618713161733239/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/agsafenz/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/agsafe-nz
Contact MediaPA:
Phone: 0274 587 724
Email: phillip@mediapa.co.nz
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