Inspections are a simple but powerful way to protect yourself, workers, and farm operations. Taking just a bit of time to look around and ask, “Is this safe?” can be the first step towards building a safer, more resilient farm.
When was the last time you walked through your farm with safety in mind?
Regular farm inspections spot hazards early, prevent injuries, and protect your people and property. Whether you’re running a small family farm, a mid-size operation, or a large commercial farm, building inspections into your routine creates a safer workplace and promotes a strong safety culture across the agricultural community.
Why Farm Inspections Matter
Farms are busy, ever-changing environments. Equipment, livestock, chemicals, seasonal tasks, and workers all pose different safety risks. Taking time for routine inspections allows you to identify concerns before they become serious problems.
Benefits of doing regular inspections include:
- Fewer injuries and near misses
- Reduced equipment damage or downtime
- Improved awareness of best practices among workers
- Greater confidence in daily operations
- Long-term cost savings from proactive maintenance and repairs
Inspection Process
Inspections don’t have to be complicated. Start with areas that present the highest risk and work your way around the farm.
Some key things to check:
- Posting requirements are up to date (page 5)
- Machine guarding on equipment
- Fire extinguishers and emergency exits accessibility
- Slippery areas or tripping hazards
- Proper chemical storage and labeling
Make note of what’s working well and what needs fixing and assign a corrective action.
Use the Inspection Checklist
To make your inspections easier, the farm safety plan workbook includes a checklist that walks you through the key areas of your farm operation. It’s a practical tool to help you:
- Identify risks
- Track issues that need attention
- Document changes and improvements
This checklist is available for free in The Guide to Your Farm Safety Plan Workbook Section 3 on the Farm Safety Nova Scotia website. You can customize it to your farm operations and keep them in your binder for reference and tracking purposes.
A Positive Safety Culture
Start with one inspection a month—even a short walk-around makes a difference. Involve workers where possible and encourage them to share their observations. Over time, you’ll build a habit of catching small problems early, rather than reacting to big ones later.
Safety inspections aren’t just about checking boxes; they are about creating a culture where safety is a part of everyday work.
To request training on how to conduct inspections of your farm operations, contact info@farmsafetyns.ca or (902) 893-2293
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