With farms across the country at full stretch, with harvesting providing better than expected yields for some, given the incredibly challenging weather conditions, farmers are being warned to minimise risks at a period when there is greater vehicle and machinery movement on site and on roads.
“While not restricted to the busy harvest period, this is the point where we see more bodies on farm, and indeed more machinery and farm vehicles in operation,” says Acres Insurance Brokers director Georgie Spencer.“One area that is often overlooked is ensuring staff operating machinery and agricultural vehicles hold the correct licences and qualifications,” she continues.
Ms Spencer explains that a clear example is the fact that not all driving qualifications are equal, in the UK, when you pass your car driving test and acquire a category B licence, you are automatically entitled to a category F licence to drive a tractor.
“This is not always the case throughout Europe, so if employing seasonal staff from European countries, it is important not to assume anything. Check driving licences, as well of course as the right to work in the UK. Failure to do so could mean any insurance cover would be void,” she adds.
Tracked vehicles also require a separate category H licence, and policy holders need to inform insurers or brokers of any young drivers under the age of 25, so there is a note added on the policy.
“This demonstrates to HSE that you have taken reasonable precautions, and will hopefully flag up any potential training gaps or areas that need to be addressed.”
