Agriculture, one of the most hazardous occupations in the United States, is getting a much-needed safety overhaul through the launch of the Safe Farm Stewards Program. This groundbreaking initiative seeks to address the alarming rates of farm-related accidents and fatalities, providing farmers with essential tools and knowledge to make their workplaces safer.
A Dangerous Profession
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, farming remains one of the most dangerous professions, with a fatality rate of roughly 19 deaths per 100,000 workers as of 2021. In North Carolina, the numbers are particularly concerning. The North Carolina Farm Bureau reports over 1,000 accidents involving farm equipment and tractors between 2015 and 2019, with Sampson County ranking 4th in the state with approximately 33 reported incidents.
These statistics underscore the pressing need for enhanced safety measures in agriculture. Farmers and agricultural workers face numerous challenges, including market volatility, unpredictable weather, and high stress levels, all contributing to an increased risk of accidents.
Safe Farm Stewards Program
In response to these challenges, a new initiative, the Safe Farm Stewards Program, has been launched. This program is the result of a collaboration between the University of Kentucky, the University of Maryland, the Southeast Center for Agricultural Safety and Injury Prevention, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, and the University of Mount Olive School of Agriculture and Biological Sciences.
The federally funded Safe Farm Stewards Program aims to make significant strides in improving farm safety. The program recruits students to conduct comprehensive safety reviews of farms in Eastern North Carolina. These students assess farm equipment and implements used in the past three years, identifying safety defects and potential hazards.
How It Works
Farms participating in the program receive a thorough safety evaluation. Those scoring above 70% on their safety review are awarded the title of Farm Safety Stewards and receive a metal sign that designates them as leaders in safe farming practices. This recognition not only highlights their commitment to safety but also sets a benchmark for others in the community.
For farms not meeting the 70% threshold, the program offers guidance on making necessary repairs or discarding equipment deemed unsafe. This constructive approach ensures that all participants have the opportunity to improve and eventually achieve Farm Safety Steward status.
A Community Effort
The Safe Farm Stewards Program represents a vital step forward in promoting agricultural safety. By involving students in the evaluation process, the program fosters a new generation of safety-conscious farmers and agricultural professionals. The collaborative effort between universities and safety organizations further emphasizes the community’s role in safeguarding its members.
Jason Davis, a key coordinator at the University of Mount Olive, emphasized the program’s importance.
“Our goal is to empower farmers with the knowledge and tools they need to prioritize safety,” Davis said. “By working together, we can make a real difference in reducing farm-related accidents and ensuring a safer environment for everyone involved.”
Get Involved
Farmers interested in participating in the Farm Safety Steward project or seeking more information about the program can visit Safe Farm Stewards or contact Jason Davis at the University of Mount Olive via email at [email protected].
