A farmer rides his horse as he herds his cattle towards stockyards near the outback Queensland town of Aramac
A farmer rides his horse as he herds his cattle towards stockyards near the outback Queensland town of Aramac, west of Brisbane, in this May 22, 2002 file picture. Reuters/David Gray/Files

New Zealand farmers have the most dangerous job in the country. Quad bikes and tractor accidents were the most common causes of death among farmers in New Zealand. Farming has been classified as the “most deadly” occupation with one farmer killed every three weeks on an average in a year.

The New Zealand Department of Labour has launched the Partners in Action program in 2014 to help reduce the number of work-related deaths. The program seeks to encourage employers to maintain “zero harm” in New Zealand businesses. The Independent.ie reports that about 237 businesses had pledged during the first few months to promote health and safety in the workplace.

Former NZ Federated Farmers President Bruce Wills, who stepped down in July 2014, said the number of farm-related deaths is depressing since “no death is acceptable.” He added that something must be done to change the culture in some farming communities. Wills has reminded fellow farmers to be more careful especially those who work with equipment and machinery.

Accident Compensation Corporation paid nearly $6 million in settlement of claims from injuries while working on farms. Almost 1,700 people sustained injuries while doing their jobs. According to the ACC, about 18,600 cases of injuries on farms were caused by the poor handling of quad bikes, farm equipment and animals.

Keith McLea from the ACC said accidents due to quad bikes, tractors and cattle cost $12.4 million worth of claims. The company has been handing out safety booklets of precautions and tips for farmers.

According to WorkSafe NZ, a tougher stance will be taken on people who are not wearing helmets when on quad bikes in the workplace. Previous reports indicated that there have been 26 job-related quad bikes in New Zealand.

The New Zealand Herald reports that Federated Farmers are working closely with WorkSafe New Zealand to improve farm safety. Katie Milne, a spokesperson for the organisation, said no one wants an accident or death. She said safety can be improved in the workplace by increasing awareness and changing attitudes towards safety.

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