1 in 10 operators will experience a tractor overturn – don’t be one of them!

May 23, 2023

The risks involved with running older tractors without rollover safety were recently brought to light by a tragedy with a small utility tractor rollover in southeast Nebraska. The effects of this horrific incident ripple across the entire rural town, leaving an irreparable mark in addition to having an impact on the family and first responders.

ROPS are now a common safety feature on contemporary tractors with more than 20 horsepower, making them safer to operate in agricultural settings.

The consequences of a tractor rollover can be devastating, with a backward tip-over taking just a second to occur. To minimize these risks, it is important to hitch loads at the drawbar and avoid higher hitching points. Additionally, the use of front weights can enhance tractor stability, contributing to safer operation.

The University of Iowa's Great Plains Centre for Agricultural Health has the following pertinent data on tractor overturns:

On American farms, tractor overturns cause 130 fatalities yearly.
In their lifetime, 1 in 10 operators will experience a tractor overturn.
80% of deadly tractor overturn accidents involve experienced operators.
One in seven farmers who are injured in tractor overturns will become permanently disabled.
In the five years following tractor-related mortality, 7 out of 10 farms are likely to cease operations.

Extension Educators in Nebraska educate teens on safe tractor operation through specialized classes, empowering them to prevent accidents and navigate hazards on farms and ranches. ROPS are essential for safe tractor operation, as they reduce the risk of injury.

Enhancing tractor safety measures, including the implementation of roll over protection systems, and promoting comprehensive training, are crucial steps in protecting lives on farms and cultivating a safer agricultural environment.

Video: Why Port Infrastructure is Key to Growing Canada's Farms and Economy

Grain Farmers of Ontario (GFO) knows that strong, modern port infrastructure is vital to the success of Canada’s agriculture. When our ports grow, Ontario grain farmers and Canadian farms grow too—and when we grow, Canada grows.

In this video, we highlight the importance of investing in port infrastructure and how these investments are key to growing Ontario agriculture and supporting global trade. The footage showcases the strength of both Ontario’s farming landscapes and vital port operations, including some key visuals from HOPA Ports, which we are grateful to use in this project.

Ontario’s grain farmers rely on efficient, sustainable ports and seaway systems to move grain to markets around the world. Port investments are crucial to increasing market access, driving economic growth, and ensuring food security for all Canadians.

Why Port Infrastructure Matters:

Investing in Ports = Investing in Farms: Modernized ports support the export of Canadian grain, driving growth in agriculture.

Sustainable Growth: Learn how stronger ports reduce environmental impact while boosting economic stability.

Global Trade Opportunities: Improved port and seaway systems help farmers access new global markets for their grain.

Stronger Communities: Investment in ports means more stable jobs and economic growth for rural communities across Ontario and Canada.

We are proud to support the ongoing investment in port infrastructure and to shine a light on its vital role in feeding the world and securing a prosperous future for Canadian agriculture.

Special thanks to HOPA Ports for providing some of the stunning port footage featured in this video.