You will need to develop safe systems of work and method statements. Just because it is a farm does not mean that you dont apply all the same systems of work. It may be the farmers are not aware of all that is required but you have a duty to provide them to the farmer. You will also surely need to do assessments on the land on which you are working. Have you got all the correct insurances in place? Employers liability? Public liability? Regarding work at height, then you will need risk assessments for the activities you are undertaking. I have seen silos erected using cranes so dont forget if you are hiring in such equipment you will need all the checks in place - annual competnet inspections, load testing, risk assessments and method statements form the hire company - not forgetting the competency certificates fo the driver and banksman. The safe would be true if you were to hire a cherry picker and then ask if you or your colleague are competent to use it. I hope you dont think me rude but do you think you are ready to embark on such a project ? - it may be a good idea to bring in some competent advice for the first few times - sure you will have to pay for it - but until you have become familiar with the process you may both be very vulnerable legally. Better than than an accdient and you and your collegue find yourself in deep water?

Develop a project plan for each activity that way you can really look at every stage of the work. Do this whether or not you are bringing in help - you will still need it. Break it down into stages and look at what risks will be associated with each stage and that of course will include use of contractors, use of hired equipment plus any risks the work environment may throw at you - unstable ground, pits, animals....

I think Steady Eddy is where it is at!!!!!!!