In most cases the Workplace Health and Safety obligations relating to the sale of second hand plant and equipment at a farm clearing sale are the responsibility of the vendor, that is, the farmer who has commissioned the stock and station agent to coordinate the event. As you would expect, many vendors are not aware of these responsibilities or how to satisfy them.
For the past decade Plant Assessor has helped ensure that plant and equipment sold at farm clearing sales across Australia are inspected and accompanied by the right safety information.
Landmark in Albury NSW has been calling on Plant Assessor to help them and their vendors manage this process since 2012. “The decision to sell up and leave a life on the land shouldn’t come with additional burdens,” explains Brian Liston the Rural Real Estate Manager at Landmark Albury.
“Clearing sales are mostly triggered when a farming family makes the decision to leave their property which is often a very emotional decision so they try and get it done with a minimum of fuss and as quickly and cost effectively as possible. Therefore, issues such as third-party safety are often missed or considered unimportant.”
“Although clearing sales can be difficult on everyone, the last thing anyone wants is a legal issue after the event so it’s a very important subject. In recent years more and more stock and station agents are starting to see the benefits of involving Plant Assessor to protect their clients.”
Landmark Albury office conducts up to 10 clearing sales each year and a standard sale would see Plant Assessor conduct detailed inspections on around 25 items of plant and equipment at each sale.
“Plant Assessor gives us the security of being covered with risk assessments – this is especially relevant for the vendors but is also important for the Landmark brand,” says Liston.
When asked about the most tangible benefit of using Plant Assessor Brian says it’s actually more about peace of mind than any administrative or work related benefit.
“Sure it saves us time and ensures a smooth workflow on the day but, in a world of frequent litigation, we offer complete security for the vendors and for Landmark,” says Liston.
“It’s a modest investment for a something that ensures everyone is 100 per cent legally covered in the unfortunate event that there is an incident involving a piece of equipment sold at the clearing sale.”
“For our business, using Plant Assessor is mandatory when we plan and conduct clearing sales. The cost benefit is obvious. It’s an efficient and affordable process that protects all parties. Why wouldn’t you do it?
“I suppose you could say that it‘s best practice.”
Our team of experts are ready to help you with any upcoming clearing sales – for more information please contact us.