Harvest season is on the horizon, and with it comes a whirlwind of responsibilities. From tending crops to managing machinery and coordinating your team, it's easy to let safety slip through the cracks. But with 32 farm fatalities in 2023 alone, ignoring safety isn't an option. It's not just about compliance—it's about protecting your workers, your family, and yourself.
Supercharge Your Farm Safety and Save Money
Wondering how to amplify your farm safety without breaking the bank? Good news: many safety-related expenses are tax-deductible. Yes, you read that right. You can bolster your team's safety and slash your tax bill simultaneously. Here's how.
1. First Aid Training
First aid training is a game-changer, especially for those working in remote areas. The full cost, including any travel, is tax-deductible. Equip your team with life-saving skills and reap financial benefits.
2. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Gear up with hard hats, safety glasses, high-vis clothing, gloves, and steel-toe boots. These essentials are claimable as business expenses, allowing you to safeguard your team without stretching your budget.
3. Safety Upgrades
Considering machine guards or electrical system upgrades? These safety improvements are also tax-deductible. Keep your equipment in top-notch condition and avoid downtime during peak season.
4. WHS Compliance Costs
Meeting Workplace Health and Safety (WHS) obligations shouldn't be a financial burden. Costs for safety audits, consultations, hazard assessments, and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are all tax-deductible. Stay compliant without the extra cost.
5. Emergency Preparedness
Solidify your emergency plan with fire extinguishers, first aid kits, and emergency response systems—all deductible expenses. Be ready for anything without the financial strain.
6. Regular Maintenance and Inspections
Regular checks on machinery, vehicles, and equipment prevent accidents and are fully tax-deductible. Preventive maintenance saves lives and keeps operations seamless during tight harvest timelines.
Seasonal Staffing with Safety at the Forefront
As harvest season intensifies, managing seasonal workers becomes crucial. Ensure new hires are trained and briefed on safety protocols from day one. A thorough induction covering safe equipment use and emergency procedures can make all the difference.
Regular check-ins throughout the season keep safety top of mind and provide a platform for workers to voice concerns.
Machinery Maintenance: Safety and Efficiency Hand-in-Hand
Machinery breakdowns are more than just delays—they're safety hazards. Regular maintenance is essential to prevent accidents and ensure smooth operations. Simple steps like checking safety guards, fluid levels, and tires can prevent minor issues from becoming major problems. Maintenance costs are deductible, so schedule these checks regularly.
Fire management is another critical factor, especially during dry seasons. Keep fire extinguishers up-to-date and accessible, and test fire control systems regularly. Prevent fires and maintain machinery to protect your farm and workers.
Maximise Your Investment
Timing is everything. Here’s how to get the most “bang for your buck”:
1. Plan Ahead - Although we're late for this harvest season, plan next year's safety purchases before the financial year ends to claim deductions sooner.
2. Instant Asset Write-Off - Utilise the $20,000 instant asset write-off for eligible safety equipment. Claim the full cost immediately rather than depreciating over time.
3. Keep Detailed Records - Maintain comprehensive records of all safety-related expenses. Proper documentation ensures you maximise your deductions.
The Smart Business Move
Investing in safety is more than just avoiding fines—it's about protecting the backbone of your business. A safer work environment means fewer disruptions, higher productivity, and peace of mind during the busy harvest season. Combine that with tax savings, and prioritising safety becomes a no-brainer.
Do you have questions about how you can level-up your safety in the lead-up to harvest, and what items may be tax deductible?
Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us via the form below.
