Health and Safety at Work Day

World Day for Safety and Health at Work takes place on April 28 every year. It is sobering to think that every day, about 6500 people die because of accidents that happen on the job, as well as work-related diseases. That is 2.3 million deaths in a year.

In the countryside, we are surrounded by places which, although routine, can be exceedingly dangerous.  We use vehicles off road; we use heavy farm machinery; we walk on uneven and slippy ground, often carrying heavy bags which are not always balanced.   If qualified, we can use chemicals which can produce deadly effects.  And yet we often don’t count the near misses; we don’t want to count the hits when someone sustains a life changing, or worse, injury.  It is recognised that the countryside can be a dangerous place.

And yet how many of us really consider health and safety.  It is important and the clue is in the title- it’s your health and your safety that is important and that can be adversely affected. maybe for a lifetime, in an instant.

The HSE produces guidance in respect of a wide variety of matters and it is good practice to consult the guidance and to be aware of it.  The guidance can be found here Guidance on health and safety for all workplaces - HSE

Please don’t think these are nanny state documents and guidance.  They are not.  They are designed to keep you are your friends and colleagues (and if relevant employees) safe.  So today, of all days, have a look at the guidance and think – does this apply to me, what can I learn from it and what do I need to do.  And what can I do to keep everyone fit, healthy and safe?