Bay farmers: Safety laws detrimental

Hugh Pearse of Hawea Farms near Elsthorpe chairs yesterday's farmers' meeting. Photo / Warren Buckland

Hawke's Bay farmers believe they will be "strangled" by the health and safety legislation due to come into force next year.

There is a growing concern the rules are becoming overly restrictive and have the potential to harm some businesses.

A group of 13 local farmers and concerned parties met in Havelock North yesterday to discuss the legislation passed in August which restricts quad bike use among other rules and regulations.

The purpose of the meeting was to find solutions to the perceived lack of consultation by regulatory bodies at a grassroots level, the over-regulation of the agricultural industry and the liability of farm owners for accidents.

While their opinions could no longer influence the shape of the act, they came together to propose solutions to Worksafe for the "over-regulations".

One of the major issues of the bill was the constraints on quad bike use, many said.

The legislation forbids passengers on quad bikes.

Owner of Hawea Farms Hugh Pearse said this could be to the detriment of animal welfare.

"If I have a crook animal, I can't even take the vet on the bike out to treat him.

"Why should safety regulations come at the cost of our animal's health?" Mr Pearse said.

American legislation classifies quad bikes as an "active single rider machine".

All quads come with signage stating that no passengers are to be taken on the bike.

"The farming industry is being badly affected by the reform."

However, Mr Pearse said a "culture change' had occurred within the industry which is responsible for a 50 per cent decrease in quad bike accidents since 2013.

"Farmers are far more aware of the dangers posed on a farm," Mr Pearse said.

"Accidents on a farm can never be completely avoided.

"Piles of paperwork will not prevent death or injury," he said.

The group will make recommendations to Worksafe around risk management, quad bike training, education and incentive initiatives to ensure a safe and productive future for the industry.