Farmer gives grandchildren rides in tractor

A neighbour captures on video, the moment a farmer gives grandchildren rides in his tractor, ultimately leading to his conviction.

William Howard Walters,78, is spotted with the child in his tractor cab feeding cattle on his farm, as a result, he’s given a 12 month community order.

Health and Safety Executive, already issued Walters with a prohibition notice  after admitting to inspectors he allows his pre-teen grandchildren to ride in his tractor. However, just two months later, he is filmed by his neighbour flagrantly breaching the terms of that notice.

A HSE inspector who investigated Mr Walters says the law is “very clear”. Children under 13 are specifically prohibited from driving or riding on or in any agricultural machine, including the tractor cab.

Walters, already has a suspended prison sentence for unrelated environmental offences. In a case that was heard in court on 27 August 2024 , he is fined £500 for breaching that sentence. As part of his community order, Walters must attend 25 days of rehabilitation.

Agriculture remains one of the most dangerous industries in Britain, with on average around 29 people killed each year. Therefore, being killed by vehicles remains the most significant cause of work related fatality over the last five years.

Unfortunately, children, often family members are among those deaths, many killed by farm vehicles.

How farmers can keep children safe:

• Children must not be allowed in the farm workplace (young children should enjoy outdoor space in a secure fenced area).
• Access to the farm workplace by children under 16, for example for education / experience, must be planned and fully supervised. This should additionally, be by an adult not engaging in any work activity.
• Children under the age of 13 years are specifically prohibited from driving or riding on any agricultural machine. It is illegal.
• Properly trained, instructed, and supervised older children may, in tightly controlled circumstances, be able to help with some straightforward low risk tasks.

Tip: Further detailed guidance about child safety on farms and in agriculture is available click here.

Howard Walters, of Swansea, pleads guilty to breaching Health and Safety at Work. He is given a 12 month community order and as a result, ordered to pay £3,000 in costs.

HSE inspector Simon Breen said: “The law around children being allowed in the cabs of any agricultural vehicle is very clear. Furthermore, for any child to ride on agricultural machinery like a tractor is unsafe and illegal.

“The fact this farmer chooses to ignore a prohibition notice for putting his grandchildren at risk is all the more staggering.

“We will take action against those who break the law.

“The solution is very simple – young children should never ride in agricultural vehicles.”

Safety Aide can assist your business regarding Health and Safety, including Risk Assessments,  please get in touch on 08000 806 801or email:  info@safetyaide.com