The good news is the rate of agriculture related fatalities is on the decline, the bad news is the agriculture industry remains the sector with the highest fatalities, according to the Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries, released by the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics.
The International Society for Agricultural Safety and Health feels that the majority of agriculture accidents take place during the harvest season, when farmers are putting in long hours and dealing with issues such as weather delays and equipment breakdowns. “We urge farmers to set priorities to reduce the risk of injury to themselves, their family and their employees,” said ISASH President Chris Shivers.
This week marks National Farm Safety and Health Week across the United States. The International Society for Agricultural Safety and Health (ISASH) urges everyone involved in agriculture to recognize the importance of health and safety practices year round. The 2013 theme, “Working together for safety in agriculture,” encourages all sectors in agriculture to work together to build a healthier and safer agriculture work place.
For more information on National Farm Safety and Health Week, visit the National Education Center for Agriculture Safety, at http://www.necasag.org/.
Do you have any tips for other farmers on keeping safe during Harvest? How do you stay alert while you are working long hours? Add your suggestions below.