Make Farm Safety a Priority
By Pat Burt – Wild West District Agriculture & Natural Resources Agent
Farming is one of the most dangerous occupations in the United States. In 2022, agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting industries had a fatal injury rate of 18.6 deaths per 100,000, while all other industries had a fatality rate of 3.8 per 100,000 full time employees. Between 2021 to 2022, there were 21,020 injuries in agriculture that required days away from work and this number is likely higher as many injuries are not reported. Not all injuries are to the farmer or farm employee because by nature of what a farm is, there may be family members, visitors, etc. who are present at the farm and could be injured but are not actually considered farmers and it is likely that these injuries are not necessarily reported as farm injuries.
Some Common Farm Hazards/Risks are:
- Equipment – farm machinery, ATVs, tractors, power tools, augers, etc.
- Chemicals – fertilizers, pesticides, solvents, etc.
- Livestock – unpredictable behavior can result in getting bit, trampled or kicked, lifting, moving or pushing animals, and some diseases can be spread to humans
- Environmental Hazards – Injuries related to heat and cold and fires
- Electrocution
- Falls
- Grain bins/silos
- Noise
That list is far from complete of hazards and risks on the farm but these are some examples. With the average age of the American Farmer now at 58.1 years old, we see some health-related issues that can come with age: slower reaction time, reduced vision, reduced hearing, health conditions, mobility issues can all increase the risk for injury. To further complicate things, farmers, ranchers and their employees often work alone and are sometimes in areas with limited cellular service and this can delay the time it takes to get emergency care. A good farm safety plan can help to reduce the risks of injuries or death. It should be a priority that everyone makes it home safely every day.
There are numerous resources available to help you, including:
OSHA: https://www.osha.gov/agricultural-operations/resources
The National Education Center for Agricultural Safety: https://www.necasag.org/
K-State Research and Extension Office – We are here to help!
