Health and Safety Hazards Associated with Farming

Abstract

Farming is a hazardous occupation with a unique combination of exposures and psychosocial factors that often vary with the type of operation. Some hazards are unique to farming; others are common in industry. Many who farm also work at other jobs. Even for non-agricultural companies, farm related illnesses and injuries can be costly in terms of lost work time, medical insurance, and life insurance. According to a former U.S Surgeon General, “Because of agriculture's diversity and geographic distribution, we must depend on local action to deal practically with the problem” (Novello, 1991). Occupational health nurses in both agricultural and non-agricultural industries can play an important role in local action to protect their workers, neighbors, friends, and families.