We at BiBU understand that our success is closely linked to the prosperity of the UK farming industry. "The Year of Food and Farming" is a major initiative in the agricultural industry's campaign to raise awareness of UK farming and food production and to engage with the general public.

In order to make it as easy as possible for farmers to participate in this campaign, AXA have agreed to extend participating policyholders public liability cover at no charge. Both ourselves and the underwriters of the scheme (AXA) want to ensure that the cost and hassle of purchasing extended insurance cover does not discourage farmers from taking part in any event associated with this initiative.

If any of your clients are hosting events as part of the Food and Farming Year or Open Farm Sunday, you should advise us that you are hosting an event and follow the checklist below:

• Make sure that visitors do not have access to any dangerous areas such as chemical stores, slurry lagoons, silage pits and any areas containing working machinery. You should pay particular attention to children gaining access to dangerous areas. Remember that you are responsible for their safety and that children are naturally curious.
• Make sure that areas where the public do have access are clean and tidy and are free from the build up of faeces. You should ensure that everything possible is done to prevent trips and falls.
• You should ensure that where children are allowed to pet animals, adequate washing facilities should be available nearby. Such washing facilities should include liquid soap and paper towels. Signs should be in place warning of the danger of not using these facilities.
• Signs should be erected to inform visitors of any dangers. You should note that a sign does not discharge any responsibility you have to protect members of the public from danger. Adequate supervision is still required.
• You should make sure that those hosting an event are trained and qualified on matters of Health and Safety and on what visitors should or should not do.
• If farming activities are taking place on the premises, make sure they are adequately separated from the area where visitors have access.
• You should ensure that sufficient toilet and wash facilities are available for the numbers of visitors to the premises.
• Inform us of your visit plans.