SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (KFVS) – As we head into fall, the Illinois Departments of Agriculture and Labor are reminding all farm workers to stay safe, especially during the busy harvest season.
Governor JB Pritzker has declared the week of September 18-24 National Farm Safety and Health Week in Illinois, with the theme “Protecting the Future of Agriculture.”
The latest data from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that the agricultural sector is one of the most dangerous in America. Every year, the agricultural profession sees over 500 victims nationwide.
“It’s important to raise awareness not only of the physical dangers of farming, but also the emotional toll it takes,” said Jerry Costello II, director of IDOA. “While we emphasize road safety, confined space safety and other traditional agricultural hazards, it is also important to encourage farmers to look after their health.”
Most farm worker injuries and deaths are caused by tractor overturns, according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. On average, these incidents result in about 130 deaths each year nationwide.
“As we enter the busy harvest season, it is more important than ever to follow best practices to protect the safety of farmers and farm workers. Now is the time to remind employers and farm workers to prioritize safety, especially around grain storage facilities, which can be particularly dangerous,” said Illinois Labor Task Force Director Jane Flanagan.
According to the IDA, visibility is the key to road safety. All farm vehicles using public roads must display the fluorescent slow moving vehicle triangle. Additionally, tractors and other self-powered farm vehicles must have adequate lighting. Drivers should remember that agricultural vehicle operators have limited rear visibility. Anyone passing such a vehicle should exercise extreme caution.
Each day during National Farm Safety and Health Week, the Illinois Department of Agriculture will highlight new issues and important topics on Facebook and Twitter.
- Monday, September 20: Tractor Safety and Rural Road Safety
- Tuesday, September 21: General health of farmers
- Wednesday, September 22: Safety and health for young people in agriculture
- Thursday, September 23: Closed spaces
- Friday, September 24: Safety and health for women in agriculture
Follow the Illinois Department of Agriculture on social media for these important updates during Farm Safety and Health Week.
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