VISITORS to a farm in Dorset learnt all about health and safety last month. 

Farmers were given a range of information about issues such as sepsis, mental health, operating machinery, transportation on and off the farm and working at height. 

NFU Mutual's North Dorset Agency organised the event at Brunsell Farm, Stourton Caundle, in the Blackmore Vale on March 13. 

The day included a presentation by Sarah Hamilton-Fairley, joint CEO of the UK Sepsis Trust, on the dangers of sepsis and how to spot symptoms. 

"I was delighted to attend the North Dorset Farm Safety Day and was given a great welcome," she said.

"It’s so important that the farming community have an awareness of sepsis – and know what to look out for and what to do if they suspect they, or someone they know, might have the condition. Time is of the essence as early treatment can often make all the difference.

"We’re so pleased to be working in partnership with NFU Mutual. Together, we’re determined to spread the word even more widely – that way we can save lives that, too frequently, are needlessly lost."

NHS mental health specialist Kisi Kent also gave a presentation. She encouraged farmers and others who work in stressful and often isolated jobs to seek help if they feel their mental health is under pressure.

Jude Green and Justin Pinder, NFU Mutual agents, organised the event, which included lunch for the 30 farmers who came along.

Justin added: "All the speakers and presentations were excellent.

“The standouts for me were the machinery safety, where we all were taken around a typical vehicle. Sarah provided invaluable knowledge on the risks sepsis can have on a highly vulnerable industry such as farming.”