SCOTTISH agricultural bosses launched a safety campaign yesterday in a bid to cut the number of deaths and injuries on their farms.

Farming is one of the most dangerous jobs in the UK today, with 33 workplace deaths in 2014-15 — six times more than the construction industry.

Risks include falls, operating dangerous machinery, moving vehicles and working with livestock.

“Farms can be dangerous places so it is important that everyone takes the necessary steps to stay safe while working,” said Scott Walker, chief executive of bosses’ association NFU Scotland.

“One death within the industry is far too many” and “most people working within the agricultural industry will be able to recall a close call situation that could so easily have resulted in serious injury or even fatality,” he said.

Health and Safety Executive agriculture head Rick Brunt warned that “behind each story is a grieving family, a community in shock, and a farm that needs to continue being farmed no matter what has happened.”

Mr Brunt said “we’re encouraging everyone in the industry to see health and safety as an integral part of their business.”