Training
Given the dangers inherent in both agriculture and forestry, training is an essential part of ensuring that all farm and forestry workers are competent to perform the tasks they undertake as part of their work.
See a complete list of Health and Safety Training courses for the sector .
A programme has been specifically designed to develop safety skills of 14- to 16-year-olds in relation to tractor driving and is provided by Farm Relief Service. The course covers both the theory and practice relating to tractor handling for on-farm use. The Health and Safety Authority actively supports this course, while FBD provides insurance cover.
FRS Training provide a wide range of health and safety training courses.
Teagasc / Third Level Courses
Teagasc has integrated safety and health training into its national training programmes. The courses provided by Teagasc are accredited by both FETAC (Further Education and Training Awards Council) and HETAC (Higher Education & Training Awards Council).
A double credit elective module on occupational safety and health is available to UCD students completing final-year Agricultural Science degree programmes.
Agriculture COP Training Courses
There is a strong emphasis in the 2005 Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act on the provision of training. The Health and Safety Authority in conjunction with the Farm Safety Partnership Advisory Committee and Teagasc, have developed a training course on the use of the Code of Practice for Agriculture.
This arose from the joint HSA / Teagasc Joint Prevention Initiative which, in consultation with the partnership, developed the Farm Safety Code of Practice.
Agricultural Consultants who are members of the Agricultural Consultants Association (ACA) also provide this half day training course on the Code of Practice to all farmers. The ACA are also members of the Farm Safety Partnership Advisory Committee.
Forestry Training Courses
Forestry, and associated activities, such as tree surgery, pose a number of serious risks to workers. Therefore it is imperative that these workers receive adequate training in the hazardous tasks that they must undertake.
Coillte Teoranta-The Irish Forestry Board provide training for many of the activities undertaken in forestry, such as machinery operation, chainsaw operation and chemical handling.
Specialist training will be necessary for personnel involved in tree surgery. Additional information on tree surgery and arboriculture can be obtained from the UK Health & Safety Executive’s website, which has a special section dealing with forestry and arboriculture.
Livestock Training Courses
FRS Training also provide training in the safe handling of livestock.
RBAI provides a 1 day Health and Safety Training course for the Veterinary and Veterinary nursing professions.