Appraisal of farm tractor accidents occurrence and prevention in Nigeria

Abstract

PurposeAgriculture remains the largest sector of Nigerian economy, generating employment for about 70 per cent of the population. With the ever‐increasing market demand for agricultural products, mechanisation of most farm operations is gradually on the increase. This new development has brought about an increase in the cases of accidents through the use of farm tractors.Design/methodology/approachThis study was carried out in the south‐western part of Nigeria to investigate the safety measurement, effectiveness, and its contributions to farm tractor usage in the State. The study identified various causes of farm tractor accidents, consequences and different classes of farm tractor‐related accidents. The effectiveness of each accident prevention method and frequency of use were investigated and put into consideration in the data analysis.FindingsIt was revealed through the analysis that the use of safety protective wear gave the highest contribution (24.05 per cent) to total accident prevention on farms while the use of orientation training and seminars gave the least contribution (8.30 per cent) with the lowest frequency of use than the other methods.Practical implicationsThe results of this study serve as baseline information for tractor manufacturers regarding the inclusion of certain parts in new or proposed tractor designs with particular peculiarity to Nigerian farmers.Originality/valueThis paper gives an estimation of the magnitude of farm tractor accidents in relation to the Nigerian farming situation and proposes remedial actions.