Insurer issues warning over straw and hay bales

The NFU Mutual is dealing with claims for three very serious accidents involving hay bales this year already. In two of the accidents the farmer’s family members had been involved and both happened with bales falling down from the top of a stack.

The third accident also involved bales falling. In this case, a bale came adrift as the retaining straps on a lorry were loosened.

Clive Harris of NFU Mutual said the fact that today’s bales were much larger and much heavier than previously was leading to more serious injuries. “You might get away with a few bruises if you are hit with a falling small bales, but a high density bale is much less forgiving.”

The mutual has highlighted the issue not only because the harvest is well under way but also because livestock farmers are about to start using hay and straw bales in the approach to autumn. In addition to the personal consequences of such accidents, the mutual also warned of the potential legal and financial implications.

One case in which the insurer was involved saw the farmer prosecuted by the Health and Safety Executive resulting in a £20,000 fine and £5,000 in costs.

lSheep producers who belong to the National Sheep Association will share the latest information from world-leading research institute, the Moredun Foundation, as a result of a deal announced yesterday. In return, the Moredun hopes the closer links with practical sheep farmers will help provide core information for its research work.

Moredun Foundation chief executive Professor Julie Fitzpatrick said the affiliation would greatly strengthen Moredun’s existing links with the livestock industry. “The NSA does an outstanding job representing the interests of its several thousand sheep farmer members and we hope the members will enjoy the many benefits of this initiative and use the knowledge gained through the mailings of our news sheets to enhance the health, productivity and profitability of their flocks.”