A FARM worker was killed after being run over by a tractor pulling a trailer loaded with cabbages in Werribee last week.

It is believed the trailer was being reversed into a loading dock at about 12.30pm on 23 November.

The man died at the scene in K Rd.

WorkSafe’s executive director John Merritt said the incident sent a powerful message to all employers and workers.

“Do everything humanly possible to prevent incidents like this happening,” he said.

“In particular, with harvesting going on in many areas, it is essential that employers, contractors and labour hire firms ensure people are not put at risk.

“Separation of pedestrians and moving vehicles is essential.

“Without this approach the dangers of farm work are magnified, particularly at this time of year when farming activity is at a high level in many areas.”

The workplace death toll this year has been labelled as high.

There have been more deaths this year than the past two years combined.

“Apart from the deaths there are also many incidents where the person in simply lucky to be alive,” Mr Merritt said.

A man was left with serious injuries after being hit by a tractor in Werribee last month.

He suffered fractures to his pelvis and leg.