Farmers are being reminded of their duty of care after a dog walker was trampled by cattle in a case that resulted in prosecution by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

The incident took place in Cornwall, where cows with calves were grazing in a field crossed by a public footpath. It has prompted renewed warnings about the risks associated with livestock in areas accessible to the public.

The farmer pleaded guilty to breaching section 3 of the Health and Safety at Work Act and was fined £5,260.

The case comes as many farmers begin spring turnout, increasing the likelihood of encounters between cattle and walkers. The HSE is urging dutyholders to carefully assess both livestock and field conditions, particularly where public rights of way are present.

Guidance from the regulator recommends avoiding grazing cows with calves in fields with footpaths wherever possible, assessing animal temperament before turnout and using clear signage to warn walkers of potential risks. Farmers are also advised to consider alternative routes, use appropriate enclosures such as electric fencing and ensure safe systems of work when moving cattle.

Additional precautions include not keeping beef bulls in fields with public access unless accompanied by cows or heifers, and never placing certain breeds in fields crossed by public rights of way. The HSE also highlights the need to consider higher-risk groups such as children, people with limited mobility and those unfamiliar with livestock behaviour.

What’s required is education, along with collaboration and communication

IOSH president Richard Bate said the incident highlights the importance of communication and shared responsibility in managing risk.

'Incidents like this remind us just how vital clear communication and shared understanding are in keeping both the public and farmers safe,' he said. 'We know safety signs make a real difference, yet too often they’re vandalised or removed, and for farmers – already under financial pressure – replacing them isn’t a small cost.'

He added that measures such as temporary footpath closures can be effective in high-risk situations but are not straightforward to implement. 'They require planning, collaboration and a willingness from all sides to understand the practical realities farmers face,' he said.

Richard stressed that both farmers and walkers have a role to play. 'Farmers have a legal duty to minimise risks on public rights of way, but walkers also have a responsibility to behave sensibly and understand the environment they’re entering,' he said.

Only by working together, staying informed and prioritising education can we reduce the likelihood of tragic incidents like this

'What’s really required is education, along with collaboration and communication. Only by working together, staying informed and prioritising education can we reduce the likelihood of tragic incidents like this.'

The HSE said careful planning, risk assessment and clear communication will be essential to prevent further incidents as cattle return to fields this spring.

Richard recently addressed agricultural safety in an episode of the IOSH Podcast. You can listen to the interview here and watch the full series here.

Source: IOSH Magazine

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