FARMERS in Scotland's south-west have questioned the 'mind-boggling' decision by the Health and Safety Executive to send officers around farms to check on Covid-19 precautions.

In recent weeks, several farmers reported receiving a 'chap on the door' from an HSE representative wanting to know what precautions had been put in place against the spread of the virus. Subsequently contacting The Scottish Farmer – but requesting anonymity – one Stranraer farmer said that the obvious first precaution against Covid spread would be not having a stranger visiting a series of farms across the country.

"My mind boggles at this. What were they thinking? Touch wood, we've not had any Covid here so far, but I can't say that I am happy with a government body sending somebody to my door, particularly if they've already been paying visits in an area that's a recognised hotspot."

Asked for comment, an HSE spokesperson said: “As part of our efforts to ensure that farms remain as Covid safe as possible at this time, our contractors have been visiting some farms to provide guidance and support on appropriate measures such as sanitiser points and protective clothing.

“All staff making visits have adhered to the same strict Covid secure protocols as used by our own staff to make sure that both themselves and the sites they visit remain safe at all times.”

Commenting, NFU Scotland vice president Charlie Adam said: “Unsurprisingly, confirmation that HSE are continuing to conduct farms inspections regarding Covid-19 compliance at this uncertain time has been met with considerable anger.

“When NFUS was informed by members that visits were still taking place, we immediately raised this with HSE and have sought reassurances that the inspections taking place are an absolute necessity. We understand that HSE will be relaying our concerns to field inspectors and reminding them of the existing protocols that are in place to minimise onsite visits and ensure Covid-19 safety on farms," said Mr Adam.

“Working with other farming unions, we have asked HSE to consider virtual rather than physical inspections at this worrying time. For a farmer to suddenly discover an inspection taking place on his premise, as happened in Dumfries and Galloway last week, is wholly unacceptable.

“If such physical inspections are deemed essential, then not only must inspectors adhere to the strictest of Covid-19 protocols but advance notice must be sought and confirmation provided.”

Mr Adam added: “The huge spike in infection rate means that every farmer and crofter must go further to protect the health of themselves, their family and their staff. Compliance with the rules and guidance is essential if we are to keep our businesses going and stick to our pledge of keeping food and drink on shop shelves and kitchen tables."