Safety and Injury Prevention

Farm Equipment Safety

Canada Safety Council estimates there are 130 farm-related deaths and 50,000 farm related injuries every year in Canada. Almost 50% of farm fatalities in Alberta have occurred to persons aged 60 and over. Actually the very young and elderly are most at risk. Being pinned or struck by machinery is the most common cause of farm fatalities in Alberta. It is important that all farmers, employees and family members to be trained in first aid and emergency scene management.

Here are some general safety tips:

• No extra riders should be allowed on farm machinery.
• Machinery should have guards and rollover protection.
• Do not adjust machinery while it is being powered.
• Do not wear loose fitting clothing around moving machinery parts.
• Avoid operating machinery when you are fatigued, distracted, ill, or have been drinking.
• Wear your seatbelt to prevent from being thrown out in the event of a rollover.

Preventing age-related farm injuries:

• Match children's abilities with agricultural job requirements and always supervise children working on the farm.
• Older farmers should have regular medical check ups for vision and hearing impairment and should check with Doctor for medication side effects that could increase the risk of injury.

References
    Alberta Centre for Injury Control and Research
    Canada Safety Council

Note: This information is not a substitute for medical advice given by a physician. Please discuss the information presented on this website with your physician.