Farmers may have one of the deadliest jobs in America. According to a recent report, the occupation is twice as fatal as law enforcement and five times more dangerous than firefighting.
It can be hard to fathom that farming is more dangerous than law enforcement. However, those who work in agricultural jobs often face high risks of severe injury and death. That’s because many have to continually use dangerous machinery, work with live animals and are usually miles away from the nearest hospital.
Farming can be a dangerous job for anyone. However, some people may be at higher risk of getting hurt than others. For instance, farmers under the age of 15 and above the age of 65 have a higher chance of facing significant illness or injury.
Most common types of farm injuries
While the debate continues over whether to tighten farming regulations and guidelines, there are still plenty of ways farmers could hurt themselves or others on the job. Here are some ways that could happen:
- Obtaining diseases from chemicals or pesticides
- Working in extreme climate conditions
- Inhaling dust causing lung damage
- Falling or getting trapped in a grain bin
- Hurting themselves with hand tools
- Getting hit by nearby traffic if the farm is near a country road
- Slipping and falling on wet or muddy surfaces
- Getting hurt by or on a tractor
- Getting skin cancer due to sun exposure
- Getting engulfed in a grain silo
- Losing hearing due to loud equipment
- Getting exposed to toxic gas
- Getting stuck in a well
Farmers can curb injuries by taking precaution
Despite the rosy picture of farm life depicted in the media, there are numerous hazards they face that can put their lives on the line. But by increasing awareness, implementing safety procedures and preparing for emergencies, farmers can create a work environment that is both safe and productive for everyone.