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The core of farming culture is reflected in the strong sense of autonomy that characterizes most farmers, as unmistakable as the robust bull bars on classic Land Rovers.
This profession naturally attracts individuals with such traits and rewards them; the most successful farmers excel at solving problems independently.
For many, opting for rural life is also a way to escape the increasing red tape found in urban environments.
They prefer to avoid the incessant imposition of regulations that govern the lives of those in cities—dictating parking rules, laundry etiquette, and even what music one can play at high volume.
See also: HSE explores whether new roll bars can reduce quad deaths
About the author
Andrew Meredith
Editor of Farmers Weekly
Andrew has served as the editor of Farmers Weekly since January 2021 after holding positions on the business and arable desks. He previously worked on his family’s upland beef and sheep farm in mid-Wales and studied agriculture at Aberystwyth University. In his leisure time, he enjoys researching where to find London’s best Scotch egg.
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When officials do intrude—be they from government, compliance bodies, or other organizations—it is easy to understand why they are often met with resistance.
This interference serves as a stark reminder of the overwhelming number of regulations that have eroded the autonomy enjoyed by earlier generations.
This situation contributes to the belief among many that certain laws can and should be ignored, particularly concerning the complex issue of farm safety.
It’s not uncommon for individuals to disregard recommendations to wear helmets while using ATVs and to ignore regulations prohibiting children from riding as passengers—where those under 13 are not allowed to operate them at all.
I recognize the valid arguments regarding the challenges of keeping children out of farm areas, especially given the high costs or lack of affordable childcare, as well as the desire to involve them in the farming experience.
Moreover, I sympathize with the sentiment that we should not overly shelter children, nor is it feasible to eliminate all risk from their lives.
However, too frequently, those who assert these views fail to acknowledge the inherent trade-off that such freedom entails—the heightened risk of severe injury or fatality.
This week, it was encouraging to hear Cumbrian farmer John Geldard advocating for fresh approaches to this pressing issue—calling on the government to mandate that ATV manufacturers incorporate more safety features to mitigate crushing fatalities.
Indeed, this is an area currently under investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), which is exploring the use of rear-mounted bars designed to protect riders from being pinned when a vehicle tips over.
While this solution may not be foolproof—Australian manufacturers raised concerns about the supporting data when similar measures were proposed there, and some withdrew their products rather than comply—it is clear that common sense appeals have failed to avert ongoing tragedies.
This is undoubtedly a challenge we can address. Instead of merely complaining, if independence leads us to bypass regulations, let’s collaborate on effective solutions that prioritize safety while respecting the needs of our industry.
SOURCE
Maria Sanchez completed her Bachelor’s degree in Plant Sciences from the University of California, Davis, in the USA. Her studies focused on plant genetics and biotechnology, with an emphasis on developing disease-resistant crop varieties. Maria has contributed to several research projects aimed at improving crop resilience to climate change and is now pursuing her Master’s degree in Plant Breeding.
