Agriculture is a vital industry providing housing, food and other necessities for human survival. However, there are numerous safety risks for those working in this industry, such as exposure to hazardous chemicals, risks of injury from heavy equipment and heat exhaustion.
According to the International Labor Organization, more than 170,000 agricultural workers die yearly from work-related accidents and illness. This number does not account for the various incidents that may lead to permanent disability and lost productivity. As a community, we must prioritize the security of our agricultural workers and take action to reduce the dangers they are exposed to.
1. Understand the Risks
One of the crucial steps in making agriculture safe for workers is to understand the risks involved. Agriculture involves many tasks, such as handling heavy machinery, working with chemicals and being exposed to extreme weather conditions. As such, assessing and identifying the potential hazards in each activity is necessary to ensure appropriate measures are taken to minimize risks.
Farmers and employers must also prioritize the safety of their workers and invest in safety measures like providing protective equipment and health care. In addition, involving team members in identifying risks and finding solutions to reduce them is crucial.
2. Provide Training and Education
Another critical aspect of ensuring worker safety in agriculture is providing training and education. Farmers and employers must give comprehensive exercises on operating machinery safely, handling chemicals and responding to emergencies. Workers must also receive instruction on the potential hazards of their activities and how to prevent accidents.
Training should be ongoing, with refresher courses provided regularly. Employees should also receive training on recognizing the signs of fatigue, stress and other physical and emotional issues that may impact their performance and safety.
3. Use Appropriate Equipment and Protective Gear
Using appropriate equipment and protective gear is essential in minimizing the risks associated with agricultural work. Machinery and equipment must be well-maintained and inspected regularly to prevent malfunctions and accidents. Protective gear — gloves, safety glasses, respirators and hard hats — must be provided and used correctly.
Employers should also ensure workers use appropriate footwear that provides adequate support, traction and protection. Farms must supply footwear based on the job requirements and the worker’s foot size and shape.
4. Reduce Exposure to Hazardous Chemicals
Agricultural work involves using chemicals, including fertilizers, pesticides and herbicides. Exposure to these chemicals can cause severe respiratory problems, skin irritation and cancer. As such, it is crucial to minimize exposure to hazardous chemicals as much as possible.
Farms must provide workers with appropriate protective gear, including gloves, respirators and coveralls. They must give training on how to use chemicals safely and minimize exposure. Employers should also store chemicals appropriately to prevent spills and ensure workers can access safety showers and eye wash stations.
5. Improve Working Conditions
Working conditions play a critical role in ensuring worker safety in agriculture. Farms must ensure staff have access to clean and safe working environments, including adequate ventilation and lighting. Workers must also have clean drinking water, restrooms and handwashing facilities.
It is necessary that farms offer favorable employment contracts, eliminate discrimination and prevent workers from farming under extreme weather conditions. This will give room for productivity and a high yield in produce.
6. Minimize Fatigue and Stress
Farming can be physically and mentally demanding, leading to fatigue and stress. Fatigue can impair a worker’s judgment, reaction time and physical abilities, resulting in accidents and injuries. Stress can also impact a person’s mental health, reducing productivity and increasing risk of accidents.
Employers must prioritize worker safety by ensuring employees are not overworked and receive adequate breaks. Team members must also be encouraged to take care of their physical and emotional health by eating a healthy diet, getting enough sleep and seeking mental health support if necessary.
Keep Workers Safe From Agricultural Hazards
Farmers and workers must prioritize safety and invest in preventive measures to protect employees while performing their duties. Doing so can make agriculture safer for staff members and promote a more sustainable and healthy agricultural sector for all.
Jane is an agriculture and environmental journalist and the founder and editor-in-chief of Environment.co, where she covers sustainability and eco-friendly living.
