Dangerous dust putting agricultural workers at risk in Northern Ireland

According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSENI), over 300 people die each year from work-related illnesses in Northern Ireland. Among them, there is a significant number of agricultural workers exposed to dangerous dust particles on fields and farms. Recent research showed that these particles, together with other chemicals and gases used in farming activities, can seriously damage the workers’ lungs. Bryan Monson, the deputy chief executive of HSENI, plans to use this year’s Balmoral Show to raise awareness about the issue. According to Monson, reducing exposure to dust through masks, ventilation, and the use of pelleted forms of feeds and chemicals is crucial to protect workers’ health. Speaking with the BBC, Dr Sean Roe, a senior lecturer at Queens University Belfast’s medical school, said farmers dismiss too easily the early signs of respiratory issues, which include sniffing and coughing. He remarked that prevention is the best way to keep healthy lungs and avoid conditions like pulmonary fibrosis, which are difficult to treat.