Farmer killed in Exeter when kicked by cow in a trailer

The tragedy took place on Wednesday, May 19.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has confirmed the date of the accident, the general area it took place in and only the briefest of details : "A farmer was killed when he was kicked by a cow in a trailer."

A full investigation is under way.

Livestock handling is one of the biggest causes of death and serious injury in farming.

Read more: Walker trampled by cows in Dartmoor field

The HSE is reminding farmers about the risks and is offering safety advice.

It says that carrying out tasks on unrestrained cattle, with makeshift equipment, or by using unsafe practices dramatically increases the risk of injury from crushing, kicking, butting or goring.

The executive is urging farmers to never underestimate the strength, speed or behaviour of cattle, even with good precautions in place.

There are ways of reducing the risk of injuries to those handling cattle which include:

• proper handling facilities kept in good working order

• a well-maintained crush that is suitable for the tasks being undertaken

• techniques that keep people segregated from cattle as far as possible

• trained, competent and agile people

• a rigorous culling policy for temperamental animals

A number of incidents take place during cattle handling activities associated with transport, particularly during loading and unloading, so extra planning is recommended.

The HSE is also reminding farmers that this summer is likely to be extremely busy with visitors who may not be aware of the risks that livestock can pose.

The two most common factors in cattle incidents investigated by the HSE are cows with calves and walkers with dogs.

Farmers’ duties to manage cattle extends not only to protecting themselves, their workers and contractors but also to members of the public - not least if they have public rights of way over their land.

Information and advice on cattle and public access can be found at the HSE website here.