West Midlands farmers have been warned that they could face fines if their workers are not fully trained for Harvest Season.

A leading agricultural expert has emphasised the importance of farmers making sure that temporary workers are educated and insured during the intense farming period.

Freddie Hamilton-Russell, from rural insurance broker Lycetts, shed light on the risks farmers take when hiring temporary help.

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He said: "Having the correct health and safety and insurance policies is vital to safeguarding lives and livelihoods during the busy drilling and harvesting season, which runs from July through to October."

“This is undoubtedly the busiest and most demanding period of the farming calendar for those involved in root crops and cereals, so extra staff are often employed to help manage the increased workload.

“While farmers may be focused on the logistics of harvesting, they must not neglect the safety of permanent and temporary staff.

"Conducting a thorough health and safety assessment, providing training and having clear processes in place, along with adequate Employers’ Liability insurance, is critical.”

Farming has been named as one of the most dangerous professions by the Health and Safety Executive.

Last year, 27 deaths, including one of a a three-year-old child, resulted from farming and agriculture-related activities.

The death rate among workers in agriculture, forestry, and fishing over the last five years has been 21 times higher than the average for all industries.

Mr Hamilton-Russell added: "On top of the trauma and distress for all concerned, dealing with accident claims for fatal and non-fatal incidents can cost thousands and years of stress for all involved.

“There is a widespread misconception that farm insurance policies include adequate protection for such catastrophic incidents, but this is not the case.

"Farmers should be aware that Employers’ Liability insurance is not automatically included in their policy.

“They must also be mindful that part-time, casual, seasonal, temporary and even voluntary workers all constitute employees.”

Mr Hamilton-Russell also encouraged farmers to offer temporary workers extensive training on-site and online including Health and Safety Executive guidance and Toolbox Talks.