An Garda Síochána issue safety notice ahead of slurry spreading season

An Garda Síochána have issued a public safety notice ahead of the resumption of the slurry spreading season on February 1, warning that there will be an increase in agricultural vehicles on roads across the country.

Gardaí are advising motorists to exercise patience when travelling behind tractors and other slow-moving vehicles and not to attempt dangerous overtaking manoeuvres. Road users are also being urged to remain alert for farm machinery entering or exiting fields and farmyards.

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An Garda Síochána also reminded farmers of their responsibilities when operating machinery on public roads.

Farmers are asked to be mindful of traffic building up behind them and to keep left where it is safe to do so to allow other vehicles to pass. Gardaí stressed that mobile phones should never be used or held while driving farm machinery on public roads.

Drivers of agricultural vehicles are advised to regularly wash down wheels to prevent mud and stones from being carried onto the roadway. Gardaí also cautioned operators to take particular care when transporting materials such as slurry, silage, sand and gravel, ensuring that loads do not spill and pose a danger to other road users.

Trailers should not be overloaded in a way that could make them unstable, and drivers should remain aware of low bridges, overhanging trees, overhead cables and uneven road surfaces, which could cause loads to shift or vehicles to overturn.

An Garda Síochána further reminded farmers that all agricultural vehicles must have mirrors that provide an adequate view of the road, along with properly functioning brakes on both tractor and trailer units. Vehicles must also be fitted with working lights, reflectors and indicators. The use of escort vehicles for large farming machinery was recommended to warn other road users and to ensure tractors are driven at an appropriate speed for road conditions.

The notice also highlighted broader farm safety issues, including the importance of ensuring machinery is properly serviced and only operated by experienced drivers. Extra care is advised when using equipment that has not been used for some time, and operators are urged not to take risks if unsure how to use machinery safely.

Gardaí also emphasised that children should always be supervised on farms, and that visitors, including family members, may not be familiar with farm environments and should be accompanied at all times.