Massey study important for occupational safety

Federated Farmers has welcomed the paper released today by Massey University’s Centre for Public Health Research, as an important contribution to occupational safety and health.

“While the media release from Massey’s Centre for Public Health Research focused upon the horticultural sector, it is important the entire agricultural sector is reminded of the need to handle all chemicals safely,” says Don Nicolson, President of Federated Farmers.

“The paper actually states that animal related agricultural occupations had a similar risk profile as that of the general population.

“Indeed, the only animal related agricultural occupation to show any increased risk was the ‘other livestock farming category,’ which includes pigs and horses but not sheep, beef, dairy or poultry.

“We would like to believe that pastoral agriculture has put the safe use of chemicals and animal remedies to the fore.

“The Federation, together with ACC, co-founded FarmSafe to deliver programmes for the agriculture and horticulture sectors.

“Since 2001, the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms (Personnel Qualifications) Regulations has required people using chemicals to be appropriately trained.

“While this takes time, Federated Farmers does look forward to engaging further with the Centre for Public Health Research,” Mr Nicolson concluded.