§ Mr. LlwydTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales how many accidents were reported on farms in Wales in 1994–95; and what measures he has taken to increase awareness of accident prevention among farm workers. [25015]
§ Mr. Gwilym JonesIn the agriculture and horticulture industry in Wales, in 1994–95, a provisional total of seven fatal and 80 non-fatal occupational injuries to all workers along with five major injuries to members of the public were reported to enforcing authorities. Information on the number of injuries which occurred on farms is not available separately.
The Health and Safety Executive carries out a number of initiatives to increase awareness of health and safety in the agriculture industry. In 1994–95, these measures included campaigns on tractor safety, working near overhead power cables and using all-terrain vehicles, aimed particularly at farm workers. In addition, the HSE produces free publications in English and Welsh and seeks to raise awareness through information at shows such as the Royal Welsh and through liaison with a range of other organisations in the industry. It also carries out inspections on those workplaces that present the greatest risk.