Issue Date:  -  Monday, 9 December 2002

Timely reminder on farm maintenance.

The tragic death of a farmer last week has prompted WorkSafe to remind farmers of the importance of properly maintaining and using farm machinery.

The Nyabing farmer was attempting to jump-start his tractor using jumper leads from another farm vehicle. It is understood the tractor was in gear when it started, and the farmer was run over when the tractor lurched forward.

WorkSafe Acting Executive Director Nina Lyhne said today that the tragic incident should serve as a warning to other farmers that machinery needed to be properly maintained to ensure it remained in good working condition.

"This is the tenth death in WA related to equipment starting in gear or accidentally knocked into gear since 1988," Ms Lyhne said.

"It should serve as a warning to farmers that plant and equipment should receive regular routine maintenance in accordance with the manufacturer's manual or the dealer's recommendations.

"Of course, jump-starting of any plant should be avoided, and the correct maintenance regime should ensure batteries are always adequately charged.

"It is always safer to recharge the battery in the workshop but if jump-starting in the field does become necessary, farmers should be extremely vigilant in ensuring that the vehicle is not in gear, that the brakes are on and that the operator is in the normal operating position."

Media contact: Caroline De Vaney on 9327 8744 or 0408 927563.