MN: The Safe Farms Check program will be launched this spring by the province, helping Manitoba farmers with injuries incurred on the job.

Many farms are small businesses and this program will help them with a custom safety and health plan template. The plan can include identifying and controlling hazards, creating emergency plans, identifying who is responsible for health and safety, conducting inspections, developing safe work practices, and find out why injuries are happening.

"Farms are a hive of activity involving chemicals, heavy equipment and unpredictable animals, any of which could cause serious injuries to adults and children," said Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives Minister Stan Struthers. "The new Safe Farms Check program will help producers prepare safety plans that will help them anticipate challenges in daily activities and map out ways to avoid potential hazards."

The announcement followed a two-year pilot project, and also offers a Safe Play Area grant (up to $500) so farms can create safe playgrounds for children.

"Raising awareness of the potential risks and dangers on a farm is the first step towards keeping everyone safe in this potentially dangerous environment," said Labour and Immigration Minister Jennifer Howard. "Creating safe agricultural workplaces is a challenge, but a strong emphasis on planning combined with education can make a difference."

More information on the program is found at www.manitoba.ca/agriculture/farmsafety, or by calling (800) 282-8069 X2315.

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