FARMERS in Dorset are to have the chance to learn about the latest health and safety issues facing agriculture at this year’s Dorset County Show.

Rural insurance company Cornish Mutual will host a Health and Safety Conference on both days of the show on September 3 and 4.

The conference will provide an opportunity for those in the industry to gain up-to-date information. There will be a range of presentations on key health and safety issues currently affecting the farming sector, with the opportunity to chat with the speakers.

Agriculture is still one of the most dangerous sectors to work in. Latest figures from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) revealed that 160 people have died in the past five years in the farming, forestry and fishing sectors with 33 fatalities confirmed in 2014/5.

Among the common causes of deaths are farmers being struck by moving vehicles, being fatally injured by animals; falling from heights or being caught in agricultural machinery.

Around four per cent of workers suffer an illness each year that they believe to be work related and a further four per cent sustain a work-related injury.

Alan Goddard, managing director of Cornish Mutual, said: “We have been driving a programme of practical and informative health and safety days across the South West for many years. This conference aims to offer a bite-size version of these popular events, giving people the choice of which sessions they would like to attend.

“The event is open to our members and non-members and we look forward to sharing knowledge and experiences with those in the farming community,”

Richard Cuzens, Dorset County Show secretary, said he was delighted Cornish Mutual had chosen the show to highlight farm safety.

“Farming remains one of the most dangerous professions in the country and it’s great that our county farmers will receive the latest help, support and guidance.”