Farming is not an easy occupation by any stretch. Many aspects of the physical environment and the work itself present challenges. Some of these affect a farmer’s health or safety. The Centers for Disease Control noted that in 2016, 417 farm workers lost their lives due to a work-related injury. Many others experience illness or impairments that range from back pain to permanent disability. Learn about the main health and safety concerns for farmers. Then take steps to protect yourself, your family, and your staff.
Three Categories of Challenges
Physical Injury
Physical injuries make up the largest category of them all. From slip and fall injuries to heat-related issues to suffocation and engulfment hazards that occur in grain silos, physical hazards abound on a working farm. Risks increase when a farmer is tired or distracted.
Exposure to Chemicals
You probably use many chemicals in your business. They all carry some potential risks. When they are used correctly, their benefits outweigh the risks and many farmers feel that chemicals have their place. Not only can these chemicals affect the ground, the air, and the water, but, if you’ve been overexposed, they can lead to health issues. Chemicals may affect a person through inhalation, through skin contact, or by accidental ingestion.
Equipment Issues
Large equipment like tractors, hay balers, grain augers and other pieces carry their own risks. The Farm Injury Resource Center reports that between 1992 and 2005, 7,571 farmers and farm workers died on the job. Thirty-seven percent of those occurred due to equipment accidents.
How to Stay Healthy and Safe
It’s critically important to eat and sleep regularly, even when the demands of the work get in the way. Without ample self-care, you cannot do your best work. You may even get hurt. And remember to stay hydrated. Learn the risks and signs of heat exhaustion and dehydration. Likewise, take the time to educate everyone on your team about good self-care.
Preventing Physical Injury
Staying focused and doing things in an orderly manner lessen physical risks. Prioritize, plan and pace activities to help prevent exhaustion or physical injury. Keeping work areas and high traffic spaces as clean and clear as possible are keys to avoiding slip and fall injuries. Know your physical limits and honor them so that you don’t become careless, which could lead to injury.
Preventing Chemical Exposure
Always wear proper protective equipment to avoid exposure to chemicals and other environmental contaminants. It is easy to take shortcuts to save time, but it’s not worth the risk. Respiratory hazards can also be controlled in this way. The National Ag Safety Database suggests wearing a NIOSH-approved respirator to reduce exposure to gases, dust, and toxins.
Equipment Maintenance and Preventing Injury
Equipment issues are a concern in this context for two reasons: stress levels and potential for physical injury. Improper use of equipment and improper maintenance could lead to injury too. When working with power tools, make sure everyone wears proper protective equipment. Use grounded outlets for power tools, and keep areas clean.
If you’re interested in protecting your farm from the issues that you can’t control, like Mother Nature or crop issues, the Broerman Insurance Agency can help you find the right crop insurance, or guide you through the steps of filing a claim. Contact us today to find out how we can help you!
PHOTO: U.S. Air Force / CC0 Public Domain