The importance of Safety Signs on the Farm
Farm signs are an important part of Farm safety. Placing warning signs around livestock, slurry, overhead cables, on the road margins when farm activity is in progress and to identify pesticides and chemicals around the farm makes the farm a safer place to work. It could save your life or the lives of others.
Teagasc – the Agriculture and Food Development Authority – is the national body providing integrated research, advisory and training services to the agriculture and food industry and rural communities. It was established in September 1988 under the Agriculture (Research, Training and Advice) Act, 1988.
Teagasc have strict rules regarding farm safety, and signs for the farm are an important element of those Farm Safety requirements. Display of suitable warning signs is an integral part of Health & Safety Management. Such signs are mandatory in prescribed situations under the 1989 Act and accompanying Regulations. For example when noise exceeds 90 decibels on a regular basis a warning sign is mandatory. It is advised to use the colours and designs of signs as specified by the European Communities (Safety Signs at Work) Regulations 1980. A booklet depicting these designs is available from H.S.A.
What is often taken as common sense to a farmer, may not be to other members of the public. They may not be aware of tractors, forklifts, livestock or other dangers in the farm area. By giving everyone a visible description of what they may encounter, you will greatly increase the safety of your farm.
