HSE calls on farmers to help keep visitors safe
Open Farm Sunday takes place this year on Sunday 9th June, with the stated aim of giving visitors “the opportunity to learn more about farming and the countryside, and farmers the chance to talk about what they’re so proud of: British food and farming!” In the lead up to this exciting annual event, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has reiterated the need for “farmers to do all they can to make sure those visiting their farms are kept safe”, according to a recent report on the Agriland website.
The article by Eva Osborne-Sherlock quotes Wayne Owen, an HSE inspector, who indicated a number of essential measures that should be put in place – not only for this coming weekend, but also for other open farm events throughout the year.
Hand washing is a high priority
Mr Owen is quoted as saying “..it is important that farmers understand the risks on their farm and ensure that visitors are protected from them.”
Listed as a key component in the article, is making suitable essential soap and water hand washing facilities available on areas of the farm where they will be most needed.
“Providing suitable facilities for washing hands and directing visitors to use them after petting animals, before eating food, before and after using any play equipment, and before leaving site.”
The report also warns against the apparent “quick fix” of using alcohol gels instead of the more robust method of hand hygiene – a rigorous twenty second soap and water wash.
“Hand washing gels are not an acceptable substitute for washing facilities.”
If the consumption of food and drink is allowed during the course of a visit, hand washing facilities must be available for use in that area, writes Osborne-Sherlock.
The Open Farm Sunday website advises potential visitors of the importance of diligent hand hygiene.
“Keep clean! Wash your hands thoroughly with liquid soap and running water, and dry them with paper towels, after touching animals, before eating, and as you leave the farm.”
Similarly, HSE guidance Preventing or controlling ill health from animal contact at visitor attractions or open farms advises that effective control measures – including hand washing – “will help ensure that the risk of infection from contact with animals is low.”
They also emphasise that “alcohol gels and wipes are not a substitute for hand washing on farms”.
And that hygiene facilities must be available wherever they’re needed.
“…washing facilities should be sufficient for the expected numbers of visitors needing to use them at one time, and should include running water (preferably warm), soap and paper towels.”
HSE calls on farmers to keep visitors safe ahead of Open Farm Sunday »
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