Farmers are urged to take extra care when working with slurry – particularly agitating – as spreading season gets underway once again.

The warning was made by the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI) as the closed period for spreading slurry comes to an end for counties in northern parts of the island of Ireland at the end of the month.

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, the authority warns.

First 30 minutes

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.

Reminding farmers of the dangers of mixing slurry, Camilla Mackey, 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.

“Do not take any chances when mixing slurry. As the closed period comes to an end I urge farmers to reflect on the safe slurry mixing code, remembering that just one breath can kill.”

In addition, farmers are warned to never: rely on filter-type face-masks; use gas monitors as a substitute for working safely; have naked flames near slurry; or stand close to the exhaust of a vacuum tanker when it is being filled.

What to do in emergencies

If you find someone has been overcome during slurry mixing, if possible, stop the pump and get the person to fresh air but do not put yourself at risk in the process, the executive says.

If breathing is weak or stopped, artificial respiration may be effective. Contact the emergency services and seek medical attention immediately.

For those interested, more information about working safely with slurry or general farming health and safety issues can be found on the HSENI website.