Safe Farm EIP was a collaboration between industry (Dairygold), academia (UCD), farm safety professionals and a number of full-time dairy farmers. The project aimed to develop, deliver, assess and evaluate a bespoke farm safety training programme with a long-term objective of promoting sustainable safety standards on farms and the possibility of future acceptance as an industry best practice standard.
While farmers are generally aware of on-farm dangers, traditional health and safety training has not been sufficient to change the culture and attitudes that lead to accidents. A more holistic approach is needed to shift behaviours and incorporate farmer wellbeing, stress management, and lifestyle factors which are often the root cause of incidents. The project developed an innovative, theatre-based training programme to drive cultural and behavioural change. A script, co-developed with farmers and based on a detailed needs analysis, used role-play to explore key themes like vulnerable people on farms, farmer mental health, and stress management in a non-judgemental way. This drama-based approach moves beyond simple knowledge transfer to challenge underlying attitudes towards risk and safety. The training was delivered via multiple channels, including live performances, facilitated online sessions, and an online learning module.
The training proved highly effective at changing attitudes and intended behaviours, with 57-70% of the 253 participants reporting a positive change. The evaluation showed the programme had a greater impact on behaviour than on knowledge, confirming that the innovative approach successfully addressed the core challenge. This model has the potential to significantly improve farm safety and reduce accidents by fostering a proactive safety culture. The live format had the greatest impact, demonstrating the power of shared, in-person experiences.
This initiative presents a significant opportunity to improve farm safety standards across Ireland. Developed and validated within an Irish context through a collaboration between Dairygold, UCD, and farm safety professionals, it offers a proven, replicable model. The training scripts are available for other organisations, such as local drama groups or other co-operatives, to use. There is clear potential for this programme to be scaled out nationally, aligning with national strategies to enhance farmer safety, health, and wellbeing.
This shows that focusing on behaviour and attitude, not just rules, is key to making your farm safer for you, your family, and your employees. You can use this information to start conversations in your own discussion groups or with your co-op about adopting more innovative, behaviour-focused safety training. Reflect on how stress and time management impact the decisions you make on the farm.
Read more about this innovation here.
