J001362 - Lycetts Newsletter Jan 2025 FINAL - Flipbook - Page 9
LITHIUM - ION BAT TER IE S: S A FE T Y
I N T H E A G R I C U LT U R A L S E T T I N G
The use of lithium-ion batteries is on the rise in farming,
powering tools, vehicles, and other machinery. While
efficient, these batteries present specific hazards,
especially if mishandled. Lithium-ion batteries are
sensitive to overcharging and can overheat, posing a
fire risk in rural settings where firefighting resources
may be limited.
A client with a large estate in the Cotswolds adopted the
battery safety protocols outlined in the pack after a
near miss involving an overheating battery. The
guidelines, covering safe charging practices, disposal of
damaged batteries, and setting up safe charging zones,
helped the estate put essential controls in place. Now,
battery-powered tools are stored and charged in a
dedicated, ventilated area with a fire extinguisher
nearby, and staff receive regular briefings on battery
safety to ensure everyone knows the signs of a
malfunctioning battery and what steps to take in an
emergency.
ENGAGING WORKERS IN SAFETY
PR ACTICES
A core aspect of our Health and Safety Risk
Management Pack is facilitating communication and
training, which are crucial for cultivating a culture of
safety on farms and estates. One estate owner in East
Anglia adopted the pack’s meeting agenda forms and
safety briefing templates to formalise regular safety
discussions. Before, safety briefings were informal and
infrequent, leading to inconsistent safety practices.
With the support of structured templates, the estate
now holds monthly safety meetings where staff review
recent incidents, discuss high-risk areas, and participate
in toolbox talks to address specific risks related to
seasonal activities. Feedback from these meetings has
allowed management to make improvements quickly,
boosting staff confidence and demonstrating a clear
commitment to worker safety.
PREPARING FOR A SAFER FUTURE
Our Health and Safety Pack is more than just a
compliance tool; it’s designed to empower rural
businesses to proactively manage risks. With easy-touse templates and guides covering everything from
livestock handling to working at heights, the pack
provides clients with the resources needed to ensure a
safer, well-prepared work environment.
The ultimate goal is to shift from a reactive to a
proactive safety culture—one that sees potential risks
as manageable through careful planning, routine
assessments, and the active involvement of all
employees. For rural clients, this means fewer
disruptions, a lower risk of accidents, and a stronger
reputation as a responsible employer.
As the farming landscape continues to evolve with new
technologies and machinery, effective health and safety
management remains essential. By helping rural
businesses access clear, structured risk management
resources, we are paving the way for safer, more
resilient operations in the UK’s agricultural sector.
IN SUMMARY
Navigating the complexities of Health and Safety
legislation can be challenging, especially for farm and
estate owners facing unique risks in rural settings. The
constantly evolving legal landscape demands vigilance
to remain compliant and protect workers effectively. At
Lycetts, we understand these challenges and are
committed to supporting our clients with expert
guidance and up-to-date information. Our dedicated
team continually monitors changes in Health and Safety
requirements, ensuring you are well-informed and
equipped to meet your obligations.
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