Hay bales can weigh hundreds of kilograms and accidents involving hay bales can result in death or serious injury. Farmers, contractors and workers should be aware of the risks and know how to prevent hay bale accidents.

Guidelines for the safe handling, transportation and stacking of large hay bales

Hay bales can be a serious hazard on farms. We have produced guidance for farmers, contractors and workers on how to safely handle, stack, and transport hay bales.

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Safe handling, transportation and stacking of large hay bales (PDF 376 KB)

While this guidance has not been updated to reflect current work health and safety legislation (the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 and regulations), it may still contain relevant information and practices to keep workers and others healthy and safe.

Please read this guidance in conjunction with all relevant industry standards that apply to you as a PCBU. This guidance will be progressively reviewed and either updated, replaced with other guidance, or revoked.