Urgent action is needed to reduce the number of deaths on Scottish farms and crofts, according to NFU Scotland (NFUS).
The farmers’ union says more needs to be done to tackle the death rate in agriculture.
The plea, which comes at the start of Farm Safety Week, follows the publication of Health and Safety Executive statistics which reveal 13 people died on Scottish farms and crofts in 2018-19.
This is up from eight the year before and represents the highest average increase across Great Britain during this period.
“One death on a farm is disappointing to hear but to hear that 13 people have died on Scotland’s farms and crofts in 2018 is heart-breaking,” said NFUS chief executive Scott Walker.
“It is concerning that whilst a conscious effort has been made by many to prioritise safety on farms and crofts in recent years, this number continues to increase.”
He said the fact three of the five all-terrain vehicle (ATV) deaths in the UK happened in Scotland was a stark reminder that everyone using a quad bike should wear a helmet.
“Once again this reinforces that everyone whether they live, work or visit a farm or croft must put safety as the number one priority,” added Mr Walker.
“We fully appreciate the challenges upon those in the industry to get the job done when struggling to make a living, but there is nothing more important than your life.
“Farm safety is everyone’s place and we need action to be taken to reduce the death and injury toll on Scotland’s farms and crofts.”
Farm Safety Week is a UK-wide initiative which sets out to inspire farmers to look after their physical and mental wellbeing and reduce the number of life-changing and life-ending accidents on farms and crofts across the country.