Think Safety While Working with Slurry

IFA Farm Family and Social Affairs chair Teresa Roche is encouraging farmers to be extremely vigilant when working with slurry.

“Slurry is a valuable asset on any farm.  However, if not managed appropriately, slurry-holding facilities and operations can be locations for accidents.

Due to the inclement weather conditions throughout spring, spreading conditions were not favourable.”

“With the weather beginning to show signs of improvement, there will be a significant increase in slurry spreading around the country to clear the backlog. It is vital that all farmers, contractors and machinery operators adhere to the safety guidelines when working with slurry and make themselves aware of the dangers,” Teresa Roche said.

Here are six farm safety tips for working with slurry:

• Remove yourself and all livestock from buildings above or adjacent to the slatted tank before you start.
• Agitate/ventilate and stay away for 30 minutes.
• Agitate on windy days.
• Ensure all slurry tanks and lagoons are covered and have a child proof safety fence of at least 1.8m in height.
• At least two people should be present at all times.
• Keep tank openings secure at all times.

“No matter how much experience you have at farming, always keep safety to the forefront of your mind when working with slurry,” Teresa Roche said.