ISSUED ON BEHALF OF FARM SAFETY PARTNERSHIP SCOTLAND

Argyll farmer’s video illustrates dangers of ‘silent killer’ hydrogen sulphide when mixing slurry

The dangers of working with slurry gases has been highlighted in a video recorded by an Argyll farmer, who believes his investment in a gas monitor has saved his life on more than one occasion.

With many farmers working with slurry at present, this is a stark reminder of the dangers of extremely poisonous hydrogen sulphide, known as ‘the silent killer’.  Mixing slurry can be a particularly dangerous job as the gas is released very quickly, and in large quantities, as soon as the mixing starts. The first 30 minutes are the most dangerous, so it is important for farmers to leave the shed as soon as the mixing starts – and to stay out for at least 30 minutes.

Even a low concentration of hydrogen sulphide can knock out your sense of smell so you won’t even know it’s there. At higher concentrations you will rapidly find it harder to breathe and become confused – and at certain concentrations, just one breath can kill. Although a gas monitor should never be used as a substitute for working safely, it can help to provide reassurance.

NFU Scotland member David Colthart of Achnacone Farm, Appin, has shared his video following the launch of efforts this week by the Farm Safety Partnership Scotland (FSPS) encouraging farmers and crofters to make safety a priority.  

David bought the gas monitor as an ex-hire seven years ago after a friend pointed out about his neighbour who had died after exposure hydroden sulphide. He says that for just a few hundred pounds this has been a lifesaver for him on more than one occasion and he urges others to make that investment as it could prevent their death or injury.

Scotland’s farm safety record continues to be one of the poorest across the UK. According to the Health and Safety Executive, over the last five years 10 people have been killed by asphyxiation or drowning, including when working with slurry pits. However, this does not includer those who have had ‘near-misses’ with slurry gases.

To view the video visit: https://www.facebook.com/nfuscotland/videos/

In this video, following the mixing of slurry underground, as David approaches the machine and shed whilst still outside, the warning sounds when half the deadly level of gas has been reached, which is a warning to ‘get out’. The second beeping gives a warning of the ‘deadly’ level as he gets closer. This is a stark reminder of the dangers of slurry gases not just within the shed but on the periphery too.

David commented: “We are told time and again of how dangerous slurry gases can be, but many still don’t take heid. Even exposure to hydrogen sulphide for a short period of time can render you unconscious and it really isn’t worth the risk.

“It is frustrating when time after time you read about death of cattle, and even worse farmers, and the devastating effect on families left behind after being exposed to slurry gas when a couple of hundred pounds spent would help protect them.

“I’ve spoken to the company that services my detector and the dealer can count on one hand how many farmers over the years have enquired about them. He said it is the price that puts them off. Can you really put a price on a life? This has been worth every single penny spent and I would urge others to make the investment.

“There are different ones on the market, from basic ones to technical devices, with varying prices, it is worth having a look and seeing what suits your needs. It could save your life, like it has mine.”

Speaking on behalf of FSPS, NFU Scotland Chief Executive Scott Walker commented: “This is a stark reminder of how dangerous working in agriculture can be. This campaign urges people to make a conscious effort to put our safety, and that of those living and working around us as a priority.

“This is an excellent example of a simple and cost-effective measure that people can put in place that can saves lives. It is Your Safety, Your Choice and for just a few hundred pounds you could make your farm a safer place to work and live.”

Notes to Editors

• To view the video visit: https://www.facebook.com/nfuscotland/videos/
• Farm Safety Partnership Scotland consists of NFU Scotland, Scottish Government, Health and Safety Executive Scotland, NFU Mutual Insurance, The Scottish Farmer, Scottish Association of Young Farmers Clubs, Farm Advisory Scotland and SAC Consulting, part of Scotland’s Rural College.
• For more information about death rates in Scottish and UK agriculture, visit: http://www.hse.gov.uk/agriculture/pdf/fatal-injuries-report-poster-1718-print.pdf
• For more information about working safely visit: https://www.nfus.org.uk/userfiles/images/Campaigns/Farm%20Safety/farm-safety-partnership.pdf 
• If publicising on social media, please use the hashtag #YourSafetyYourChoice.
• For those mixing slurry, you should:
  • Keep children away from the area at all times when working with slurry
  • If possible, mix on a windy day
  • Open all doors and windows
  • Take all animals out of the building before starting to mix slurry
  • If slats are removed, cover exposed areas of the tank beside the pump/mixer to stop anything falling in
  • Start the pump/mixer – then get out and stay out of the building for as long as possible – at least 30 minutes
  • Any time you have to go into the building try to make sure that another adult knows what you are doing and can get help if necessary
  • If you have to re-enter to move the pump or change the direction of the pump, leave the building as soon as this is done – do not go back in for as long as possible – at least another 30 minutes.
    

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Contact Ruth McClean on 0131 472 4108