Safety Signs News

HSE issues telehandler warning for farmers

30th June 2010 | Warning Signs

Farmers should not use the buckets of telehandlers to drive in fencing posts under any circumstances, according to health and safety officials.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has issued a warning after witnessing a rise in incidents involving buckets coming loose from the main telescopic arm when hitting a post and striking people below.

Indeed, a farmer in central Scotland damaged his leg in this way last month, while two people were killed in unrelated accidents in North Yorkshire last September.

"Farm machinery should only be used for its intended purpose. Misusing equipment like telehandlers can lead to terrible tragedy," said HSE inspector Jean Edgar.

"Where HSE identifies dangerous working practices like this, where safety guidance is blatantly ignored, we will not hesitate to take enforcement action."

The HSE advises farmers to ensure they only use telehandlers in accordance with the rules and safety signs set out in their respective manufacturer instructions.

Earlier this month, the HSE warned farmers about the dangers of using semi-automatic quick hitches if they are missing a retaining pin.

Posted by Jason Nicholls ADNFCR-2754-ID-19866621-ADNFCR