Farming: How to keep your people safe when the pressure’s on

‘Farming consists of a never-ending list of tasks and constant reprioritisation. However, we cannot let those challenges contribute to loss of life or injury.’ — WorkSafe NZ

Whether you're managing livestock, packing fruit, pruning vines, or preparing for planting, seasonal pressure doesn’t have to come at the cost of safety. Make health and safety part of your staff’s daily routine.

Are your farm vehicles up to the job?

In July 2024 alone, four farmers were killed in quad bike accidents, with poor conditions, steep slopes, and fatigue playing a key role in these tragedies.

Farm vehicles and machinery are part of everyday life, but they carry serious risks.

To keep your people safe:

• Choose the right vehicle for the terrain

• Install crush or rollover protection

• Wear helmets and seatbelts — every ride, no exceptions

• Encourage your team to take breaks, especially when they’re tired or when the weather turns.

  
  

Leptospirosis: Know the risk

Did you know leptospirosis is New Zealand’s most common work-related infectious disease? It spreads through contact with animal fluids or contaminated water and soil, particularly in flood-prone or wet areas.

Keep yourself and your farmers healthy by:

• Using gloves and protective clothing

• Covering cuts and cleaning wounds

• Practicing good hygiene and handwashing

• Watching for symptoms: fever, chills, headaches, muscle pain

• Report cases — leptospirosis is notifiable to WorkSafe.

  
  

Pay attention to the cold

Not even the toughest farmer is immune to a New Zealand winter. Cold, wet, and windy weather can cause lasting injury and illness, so protect your team by:

• Providing warm, waterproof gear and shelter

• Allowing warm-up breaks and rotating tasks

• Keeping clothing dry between shifts

• Monitoring for signs of cold-related stress or illness.

  
  

Don’t rush the last job of the day

At the end of a long day, it’s tempting to rush through that final task, but fatigue on the farm is not the same as nodding off at your desk. When you're handling machinery or working with livestock, the risks are real and ignoring your exhaustion can lead to serious harm.

Encourage your team to slow down and:

• Assess the risk before tackling end-of-day tasks

• Prioritise safety over speed

• Speak up if they have any concerns about fatigue or safety.

  
  

Look after your people

Your workers are your most valuable asset. Clear communication, the right equipment, and knowing when to slow down can make all the difference.

If you’d like support integrating health and safety into your planning or budgeting, give us a call.