Teagasc has urged tillage farmers to actively adopt a safe fertiliser spreading routine at all times.

It has specifically recommended that all tractors and spreaders should be checked prior to field work getting underway.

Teagasc has also advised farmers that they should ensure that power take off (PTO) guards are in place and secure before beginning field work.

In addition to this farmers should check that lifting equipment for large fertiliser bags is in good condition, and they should also be careful to use long-handled knives to open bags, stay clear, and always lower equipment when it is not in use.

Regardless of how under time pressure they may be farmers must also be especially mindful of driving carefully at all times - especially in the farmyard.

At this time of year farmers should, If slopes must be traversed, carefully assess the risk of overturning and stay vigilant at all times.

Because although modern farm machinery items are extremely efficient and sophisticated pieces of ‘kit’, accidents can occur, particularly if they are used by people who are extremely tired.

According to health and safety specialists, it is vital to have a work life balance on the farm - Irrespective of how busy they are, farmers and contractors should make sure that they take the proper rest periods.

Because apart from increasing the risk of serious accident, tiredness will also reduce operator efficiently dramatically.

Separately children who may be home over school holidays are an added health and safety risk at this time of the year.

They are particularly vulnerable when it comes to farm accidents.

So, it is up to parents to make sure that the next generation of farmers are taught from the get-go that farms are inherently dangerous places and that nothing can be taken for granted.

The speed that modern tractors and other powered vehicles can now achieve around farm yards and enclosed spaces can be overwhelming.

Therefore it is important to ensure that everyone is aware that a farm is a working environment - everyone should always look twice before entering any farm building to ensure that they are not about to encounter an unexpected hazard at any time.