With the closed period for spreading slurry coming to an end at midnight on January 31, the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI) is reminding farmers to take extra care when working with slurry.

Because of the wet year many cattle were kept indoors for extended periods of time in 2017, meaning this year many tanks are already at capacity.

Mixing slurry can be a particularly dangerous job as slurry gas is released very quickly, and in large quantities, as soon as the mixing starts.

‘One breath can kill’

Reminding farmers of the dangers, Malcolm Downey, principal inspector of HSENI’s farm safety team, said: “Before starting any job on the farm – including slurry mixing – take time to stop, think and safely plan the work ahead.

“Cover openings and keep children and animals far away during the mixing process.

“Stay out of the building for at least 30 minutes after the mixing starts and every time you move the pump or change the direction of mixing.”

The slurry mixing code

What is released is a mixture of gases – including the extremely poisonous gas hydrogen sulphide. Even a low concentration of hydrogen sulphide can be dangerous.

At higher concentrations you will rapidly find it harder to breathe and become confused – and at certain concentrations, just one breath can kill.

The first 30 minutes are the most dangerous; so, it is important for farmers to leave the shed as soon as mixing starts – and to stay out for at least 30 minutes.

Seven fatal accidents took place on farms in Northern Ireland in 2017.

For more information about working safely with slurry or general farming health and safety issues please contact the HSENI helpline on: 0800-0320121.

Alternatively, those seeking more information can visit the farm safety page on the HSENI website: www.hseni.gov.uk.