Safer Farms for Every Generation: FRS Co-Op’s New Training Initiative
FRS Co-Op is proud to lead the Farm Family CPD initiative, offering free farm safety training to 300 families this year. This programme is part of a wider effort to foster a culture of safety and wellbeing on Irish farms.
What Is the Farm Family CPD Programme?
At its core, the Farm Family CPD (Continuous Professional Development) initiative is a training-led, cost-effective approach to improving safety for every generation on the farm. Backed by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, this initiative is fully funded and developed in partnership with:
- The Health & Safety Authority
- IFA, FBD, Teagasc
- And Irish farm families themselves
Led by FRS Co-Op’s training division, FRS Training, this programme includes five online courses designed to reduce the number of fatal and non-fatal farm accidents by shifting behaviours, building awareness, and upskilling families.
Courses begin in August 2025, and registration is now open at www.farmfamilycpd.ie.
Why FRS Co-Op Is Taking the Lead on Farm Safety
Since its founding in 1980 by farmers, FRS Co-Op has remained committed to supporting farm families through services, employment, and training. Today, FRS is the largest employer of farm labour in Europe and continues to invest in initiatives that protect lives and livelihoods.
“We’re delighted to launch this initiative through our co-operative,” says Ben Fearn, Head of Operations at FRS Training. “These courses are practical, inclusive, and designed to meet the real risks faced on Irish farms today.”
What the Data Tells Us
- Farming has accounted for 38% of all workplace fatalities in Ireland since 2014
- 4,500 non-fatal accidents occur on Irish farms each year
- Older farmers (65+) make up over half of all fatal farm accidents
- Despite this, less than 35% of farmers express interest in safety training
The Farm Family CPD initiative directly addresses this gap with accessible, age-appropriate training for everyone on the farm.
What’s Included in the Training?
These five courses are fully online and cover essential areas of farm safety, including:
- Tractor and machinery operation
- Quad bike and chainsaw handling
- Slurry safety
- Livestock management
- Mental health and wellbeing on the farm
Courses are flexible, family-friendly, and developed in consultation with real farmers to reflect the daily risks they face.
Changing the Mindset Around Farm Safety
“There’s no such thing as a ‘safe farm’,” Ben Fearn continues. “Only safe habits, safe practices, and well-trained people can reduce the risks. That’s what this training is all about.”
The Farm Family CPD initiative encourages lifelong learning, helping families stay informed and protected as technology, tools, and responsibilities evolve.
How to Register
If you’re a farm family looking to improve your safety and wellbeing, don’t wait. These free courses are available to only 300 families, and spaces are filling fast.
Visit www.farmfamilycpd.ie to register today.
