Agricultural event attempts to tackle most dangerous industry in UK

A series of safety demonstrations are due to be staged at this years Livestock 2012 which opens today.

This new initiative comes following statistics showing that on average one farmer dies through injuries sustained at work each week in the UK.

Fatal accidents are 12 times more likely in agriculture than other industries, this figure remains consistent.

Livestock 2012 is a leading agricultural event, running on the 4th and 5th September this year attracting 16,000 people.

One farmer who knows the importance of safety is James Chapman, he lost his arm in 2005 when he was working on a friend's farming machinery.

Agriculture is the most dangerous industry in this country. While the sector contains as few as 1.5% of the working population, it features 20% of people killed at work.

The reasons for this include more farmers having to work alone, they are using more powerful machinery and the work force is ageing.

Five live demonstrations will be showcasing at Livestock 2012, with the latest techniques to reduce accidents which focus on workplace transport responsible for the highest number of farming deaths including fork lift trucks, tractors as well as livestock related incidents.

James Chapman who was once Chairman of National Federation of Young Farmers' Clubs says something has to be done:

Mr Chapman says he understands it is difficult for farmers to do everything by the 'health and safety manual' but he hopes that attitudes will change and save lives after the demonstrations at Livestock 2012:

Livestock 2012 is being held at the NEC today and tomorrow.