Francis Blight, Teagasc Health and Safety Specialist joined Michael Hennessy on this week’s Tillage Edge podcast to discuss machinery safety for young drivers and also other safety areas around the farmyard.  Francis told the Tillage Edge there was no change in legislation regarding young drivers operating larger and faster tractors.  Therefore, there is increased onus on the owner of the machinery to spend time training these young inexperienced drivers before letting them loose on roads.  Francis recommends spending at least a couple of hours with the driver training them to safely operate the machine off the road and further time training them while driving on roads.  Francis highlighted the need for reduced speeds around yards as many injuries and deaths are caused by people getting knocked down in this environment. Francis also touched on other areas where farmers can improve their practice such as workshops.  Keeping these areas tidy reduces trip hazards, plus first aid kits and other safety equipment should be accessible and well maintained at all times.  For more episodes and information from the Tillage Edge podcast go to https://www.teagasc.ie/crops/crops/the-tillage-edge-podcast/ The Tillage Edge is a co-production with LastCastMedia.