Investigation launched following farmer death

Posted: September 28, 2014

Posted in: Workplace Injuries Wrongful & Accidental Death 

A Health and Safety Executive investigation has been launched after a farmer was killed in March. 66-year-old Jim Sharp had been operating a grain auger on Monday the 17^th of March when the workplace accident happened. Mr Sharp was well known in the farming community, having been a former convenor of the NFU Scotland livestock board..

The president of the farming union, Nigel Miller, said that Mr Sharp has definitely left his mark on farming in the borders. He said:

“As a man he had a sharp intellect and a level of experience which was of real value in serious conversation, but also a generosity and love of life which made him great company.”

Agriculture deaths account for one fifth of fatal injuries at work

In the last decade, around one person a week is killed as a result of agricultural work. Farmers and farmworkers have to deal with hazardous machinery, livestock, chemicals, vehicles, and heights. With farming grouped alongside forestry and fishing — just over one in a hundred workers in agriculture — the deaths account for one fifth of fatal injuries to workers.  The total cost of injuries in these sectors is estimated at £190 million, with fatalities accounting for around £55 million.

A fatal accident inquiry into Mr Sharp’s death is to take place on 28^th of November at Selkirk Sheriff Court, with a preliminary hearing to take place on 30^th October.

« Motorcyclist left with severe brain injuries following car crash
Asbestos firm fined £15k for working without a licence »