WORKSAFE VICTORIA is calling on producers to look out for known safety hazards and each other this harvest, following another farm death in the state.    

A 68-year-old man, believed to be a contractor, was killed on Wednesday after being crushed between a tractor and a hay rake attachment at a farm in Foxhow, near Lismore, Victoria. He was helping to connect the attachment when the reversing tractor pinned him against the machinery. 

The fatality occurred just over month after another Victorian farmer died after being crushed while operating a tractor on a farm on a property near Peterborough.

Following the latest farm fatality, WorkSafe Victoria last week warned of the demands on both producers and their equipment during harvest, due to warmer weather and pressure to work longer hours at a faster pace, increased the risk of serious incidents.   

WorkSafe chief health and safety officer, Sam Jenkin, said fatigue and incidents involving vehicles and machinery remained a significant contributor to workplace harm on farms, with many incidents involving experienced farmers performing everyday tasks alone.

"We know that fatigued workers are at a higher risk of serious incidents, particularly while working alone with machinery, making rest and focus even more important during the demands of the harvest season," Jenkin said.

"The result can be deadly when workers don't have enough time to recover each day, especially for older farmers whose physical capabilities may have changed over time."

Fatigue is not just feeling a bit sleepy or tired, but repeatedly pushing beyond mental and physical limits – which can severely impact reaction time, co-ordination, concentration, and mental health.

Data shows the agriculture industry continued to be over-represented in workplace fatalities, and in Victoria regularly accounted for more than 10 percent of deaths despite making up just two per cent of the state's workforce.

Jenkin said most of these fatalities related to the use or maintenance of farm machinery and vehicles, including the three confirmed work-related deaths on Victorian farms so far this year – each involving reversing tractors.

"Sadly, WorkSafe continues to respond to too many incidents with vehicles and machinery, including a tragic death at Foxhow this week," he said.

"Simple measures – such as having daily safety conversations, planning ahead, ensuring equipment is well-maintained and guarded and letting someone know where you are and when you're due back – can all make a big difference at this time of the year."

Fourth-generation Wimmera farmer, Scott Arnold, echoed these calls by urging his fellow  producers to be honest with themselves, their colleagues and loved ones about when they need a break.

"There's a stigma or like a badge of honour that it's good to work long hours, but it's not – it only increases the risk," Arnold said.

"The paddock and the crop is still there tomorrow, but if something happens to you, you're not."

Employers can manage hazards and risks on farms this harvest by:

• Planning ahead to identify potential issues, including weather conditions and lack of rest;
• Training staff in the safe operation of machines and equipment, regardless of their level of experience;
• Using side-by-sides safely, including seatbelts, helmets, and appropriate loads;
• Regularly servicing and inspecting machines and equipment;
• Checking-in with those working alone to monitor potential issues or safety concerns; and
• Preparing for the fire danger period by ensuring firebreaks are in place and equipment sites are clear of flammable materials.