Archive Article: 2001/03/23
ALTHOUGH very few farm accidents involve pesticides, it is wise to read product labels carefully to check whether any special precautions are needed should there be an incident.
Ensure that you have a label or leaflet about the product you are using readily at hand when mixing and spraying, says Rob Simpson, technical executive officer with BASIS (Registration).
"It is good practice for operators to go on a one-day emergency first aid course run by the Red Cross or St Johns Ambulance. At about £35 they are good value for money and a small cost for the peace of mind that comes with knowing what to do in any emergency on the farm, not just when using sprays."
The importance of checking the ABC of first aid – Airways, Breathing, Circulation – and how to put injured people in the recovery position will be taught, among other things.
"Carry a well sealed first aid kit on the tractor and store it away from the risk of dirt or product contamination." says Mr Simpson.
As well as the usual range of bandages, sterile dressings, plasters, triangular bandage and scissors found in the kits, a plastic mouthpiece to avoid contamination during mouth-to-mouth resuscitation is very useful, he says.
"An in-date bottle of eye wash should always be available and a foil blanket can be a boon, especially when working in isolated areas," he adds.
All vehicles should have contact phone numbers for the farm, emergency services, doctor and hospital readily on view. Indeed, judges have noticed a number of FSOOTY finalists have them displayed in a window so that they can be seen from outside the vehicle; often along with a label of the product they are working with.
"A variety of farm accidents are all too common and good first aid training does minimise risk to limb and health," says Mr Simpson. *