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Working with Senior Farmers and Ranchers


Use the following format to cite this article:

Working with senior farmers and ranchers. (2012) Farm and Ranch eXtension in Safety and Health (FReSH) Community of Practice. Retrieved from http://www.extension.org/pages/63140/working-with-senior-farmers-and-ranchers.

 

Many farm and ranch operations are family owned and operated and include workers of all ages. As a result, older adults are more prevalent in production agriculture than in other occupations. Between 2002 and 2007, the average age of farm operators increased from 55.3 to 57.1, and the number of farm operators over the age of 75 increased by 20% (2007 Census of Agriculture). Senior farmers and ranchers can offer valuable insight and wisdom gained from their years of work experience. It is important to keep communication channels open with senior workers, provide necessary worksite accommodations, and implement changes to keep them safe.

According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), when it comes to work-related injuries, older workers are at a disadvantage compared to their younger counterparts because older workers are more susceptible to injuries and typically have a longer recuperation period (NIOSH, 2009). In an article in the October 2005 Monthly Labor Review, Samuel Meyer notes that in the period between 1995 and 2005, a farmer over the age of 55 was over 10 times more likely to be involved in a fatal-injury incident involving tractors, equipment, or animals.

Senior farmers and ranchers are typically at a higher risk for work-related injuries and death due to the effects of the aging process. These effects can include:

  • reduced reaction time, balance, and strength;
  • changes in cognition levels;
  • decreased visual acuity; and
  • hearing loss.

These types of changes can affect the work that senior farmers and ranchers can safely complete. Agricultural producers and family members need to consider ways to make adjustments and modifications to better accommodate the needs of senior workers.

To decrease the risk of injury, those working with senior farmers and ranchers should take the following actions:

  • Vision Testing: Ask that senior workers have their vision tested regularly and abide by doctors’ recommendations regarding any driving restrictions.
  • Communication System: Keep a communication system, such as cell phones or two-way radios, available to senior workers at all times.
  • Fall Prevention: Take steps to reduce the risk of falls.

    • Increase the level of lighting in barns, shops, and other buildings. 
    • Clear walkways, add nonslip surfaces to walkways, and add steps and handrails to stairs and elevated equipment.
  • Medication: Encourage senior workers to consider whether prescription and over-the-counter medications could affect their ability to safely operate equipment and machinery. Ask them to check for any warnings on medication labels.
  • Rollover Protection: Make sure that all the primary tractors in the operation are equipped with rollover protection. (Click here for information about rollover protection rebate programs.) Consider trading in an older model tractor for a newer model that is equipped with better seating, accessibility, and rollover protection.
  • Rest and Fluids: Have senior workers take necessary rest breaks and encourage them to get ample sleep, especially during high-stress times of the year such as harvesting. Provide frequent opportunities for senior workers to drink plenty of fluids.
  • Health Conditions: Be aware that health conditions can cause changes in a worker’s ability to safely complete a farm task. Understand that limitations or worksite accommodations may be necessary for senior workers to remain in production agriculture. Ask senior workers to consult with their physicians about participating in programs of strength training, stretching, and cardiovascular exercise to maintain or improve health status.
  • Hearing: It is common for senior workers to have some level of hearing impairment that can make it difficult for them to hear warning signals and approaching animals and co-workers. Encourage senior workers to have their hearing checked by an audiologist to determine whether hearing aids are applicable to their work environment. Provide workers with any necessary hearing protection. Due to hearing impairments, the use of agricultural hand signals may be even more valuable to senior farmers and ranchers. Click here to learn more about hand signals used in production agriculture.
  • Tractor Operation and Driving: Ensure that each tractor in the operation is equipped with properly working lights, brakes, and fenders and that shields are in place. Limit tractor driving to daytime hours, and ask workers to avoid roadways that are heavily traveled. Ask senior workers to take a driving course to maintain and promote skills and safety knowledge related to driving.

 

 

 

Use the following format to cite this article:

Working with senior farmers and ranchers. (2012) Farm and Ranch eXtension in Safety and Health (FReSH) Community of Practice. Retrieved from http://www.extension.org/pages/63140/working-with-senior-farmers-and-ranchers.

 

Sources

2007 Census of Agriculture: Demographics. (2007) United States Department of Agriculture, National Agriculture Statistics Service. Retrieved from http://www.agcensus.usda.gov/Publications/2007/Online_Highlights/Fact_Sheets/Demographics/demographics.pdf.

Funkenbusch, K. & Downs, W. (n.d.) Senior farmers at risk on the farm. Agricultural Safety Tips and Ideas. Retrieved from http://agrability.missouri.edu/ruralsafety/factsheets/updated/SeniorFarmersRiskOntheFarm.pdf.

Meyer, S. (2005) Fatal occupational injuries to older workers in farming. Monthly Labor  Review. Retrieved from http://www.bls.gov/opub/mlr/2005/10/art5full.pdf.

Murphy, D. (1994) Senior farmers and safety: How changing health affects risks of fatal injury. Extension Circular 147. The Pennsylvania State University College of Agricultural Sciences Cooperative Extension. 

Occupational health disparities. (2009) National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health. Retrieved from http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/programs/ohd/risks.html.

 

Reviewers, Contributors, and Summarized by:
Linda M. Fetzer, Pennsylvania State University – lmf8@psu.edu
Karen Funkenbusch, University of Missouri – funkenbuschk@missouri.edu
Dennis J. Murphy, Pennsylvania State University (Has since retired)
Carla Wilhite, University of New Mexico – CWilhite@salud.unm.edu
Aaron M. Yoder, University of Nebraska Medical Center – aaron.yoder@unmc.edu
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Farm Pond Safety


Use the following format to cite this article:

Farm pond safety. (2012) Farm and Ranch eXtension in Safety and Health (FReSH) Community of Practice. Retrieved from http://www.extension.org/pages/63139/farm-pond-safety.

 

Although ponds on farms and ranches across the country serve a variety of functions, such ponds can also be a source of danger and liability. Victims of all ages, most typically small children, have drowned in farm ponds. Unsupervised children with little or no swimming instruction may play too close to the water’s edge and lose their balance. The dangers of ponds are not limited to children or those who cannot swim; other dangers are hidden in and beneath the water. Ponds may be contaminated by field runoff containing agricultural fertilizers, pesticides, livestock waste, and other pollutants that pose health concerns. Additional hazards in farm ponds include sharp rocks, animal bones, broken bottles, and other types of debris that can cause cuts and injuries.

As a pond owner, you should restrict pond use to invited guests only. In addition, take the following actions to minimize the dangers and liability associated with each pond on your farm or ranch:

  • Post No Trespassing and/or Keep Out signs around the pond.
  • Promote proper swimming instruction for all children.
  • Eliminate physical hazards in and around the pond, which may include sloping entrance areas and pond edges.
  • Dredge the pond regularly to remove submerged debris.
  • Employ a certified laboratory to test the pond’s water quality each spring.
  • Identify the depth of the water at various locations in the pond and indicate dangerous areas.
  • Insert a stable yellow rescue post in close proximity to the pond’s edge. Outfit the rescue post with the attachments described below.
    • Obtain a nylon rope that is as long as the width of the pond. Secure one end of the rope to a wooden block, and the other end to a buoy. (You can make a buoy by filling a gallon milk jug with approximately one pint of water.)  Hang the rope and buoy on the rescue post.
    • Mount a thin, lightweight 12- to 14-ft. pole (aluminum or PVC) on the rescue post. This pole can be used as a rescue pole for floundering victims.
    • Secure a sign at the rescue post that displays pond rules and emergency contact information, including information for calling 911.

Pond Pole. Source: The Ohio State University

  • Never allow anyone to swim alone. Individuals who supervise swimmers should be trained in water rescue procedures and CPR. 
  • If possible, install a fence with a locked gate around the pond.

Following the above safety recommendations can reduce your risk of an incident, but despite taking appropriate precautions, you may still face liability should a drowning or other incident occur in your pond. Contact your insurance agent to discuss liability insurance coverage related to your pond.

 

Use the following format to cite this article:

Farm pond safety. (2012) Farm and Ranch eXtension in Safety and Health (FReSH) Community of Practice. Retrieved from http://www.extension.org/pages/63139/farm-pond-safety.

 

Sources

Bean, T. (2008) Farm pond safety. Ohio State University Extension. No longer available online.

Murphy, D. and Fetzer, L. (12014) Farm pond safety. The Pennsylvania State University College of Agricultural Sciences. Retrieved from https://extension.psu.edu/farm-pond-safety.

Training module: Farm pond safety. (2003) The Ohio State University Agricultural Tailgate Safety Training. Retrieved from http://nasdonline.org/1755/d001730/farm-pond-safety.html.

Willcutt, H. (2002) Farm pond safety. Mississippi State University Extension Service. Retrieved from https://extension.msstate.edu/sites/default/files/publications/publicati….

 
Reviewed and Summarized by:
Linda M. Fetzer, Pennsylvania State University – lmf8@psu.edu
Carol Jones, Oklahoma State University – jcarol@okstate.edu
Dennis J. Murphy, Pennsylvania State University – (Has since retired)
Charles V. Schwab, Iowa State University – cvschwab@iastate.edu
J. Samuel Steel, Pennsylvania State University (Has since retired)
Aaron M. Yoder, University of Nebraska Medical Center – aaron.yoder@unmc.edu
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What is a cow’s flight zone?

If you are planning to move cattle, you must first understand their “flight zone.” Understanding a cow’s flight zone will reduce stress on the animal and reduce the likelihood of injuries to you and the animal. A cow’s flight zone is similar to your personal space—it is the distance from an animal that a handler must maintain for the animal to feel comfortable. When a person enters the cow’s flight zone, the cow will move. A dairy cow that is accustomed to human interaction on a daily basis has a smaller flight zone than a beef animal out on the range (the flight zone of such an animal might be up to 300 ft).

“Point of balance” is a factor related to flight zone, and working with a cow’s point of balance will also help you move a cow more safely. The point of balance is located at the cow’s shoulder. To move a cow forward, you should be positioned behind its shoulder. If you need to move the animal backward, position yourself in front of the shoulder. Whether moving a cow forward or backward, work at the edge of the cow’s flight zone and at angle of 45° to 60° so that you stay within the animal’s field of vision.

For more information about handling beef cattle, click here to view the article “Beef Cattle Handling Safety.” 

Posted on

Sun Exposure and Agriculture

 
Sun Photo
(Photo Source: Pennsylvania State University Ag Safety & Health)
 

 

Use the following format to cite this article:

Sun exposure and agriculture. (2012) Farm and Ranch eXtension in Safety and Health (FReSH) Community of Practice. Retrieved from http://www.extension.org/pages/63042/sun-exposure-and-agriculture.

 

Farmers and ranchers need to be cautious about their exposure to the ultraviolet rays (UV) of the sun. Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States and is related to repeated exposure to the sun which causes damaging changes to a person’s skin. The two types of ultraviolet rays most likely to damage a person’s skin and increase the risk for developing skin cancer are Ultraviolet A (UVA) and Ultraviolet B (UVB).

No one is immune to the sun’s UV rays; however, some skin types are more susceptible than others. People with blonde or red hair, fair skin, or freckles tend to get sunburned more quickly than others and should be even more vigilant about protecting themselves from the sun.

Skin damage builds up over the years, and once the damage has occurred, it cannot be reversed.

 

Risks of Sun Exposure

One of the main health concerns of sun exposure is skin cancer. In the United States, one in five people will develop skin cancer. Contact your physician if you notice a difference in your skin or changes in moles regarding asymmetry, border, irregularities, color, or size.

The three main types of skin cancer are basal, squamous, and melanoma. Basal and squamous cancers are typically associated with long-term exposure to the sun but are seldom fatal. Melanoma can be fatal if not diagnosed and treated early and can affect people of all ages. When examining your skin for melanoma, look for changes in the size, shape, and color of existing moles and discolored patches of skin that may start small and grow.   

 

Recommendations

The following recommendations can reduce an agricultural producer’s risk of sun exposure, skin cancer, and other sun-induced conditions:

Sun Intensity – Exposure to harmful ultraviolet rays is most intense between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. When possible, avoid working in direct sunlight during this time. If you must be in the sun during these hours, take shade breaks to reduce exposure, drink plenty of water, and reapply sunscreen at least every two hours.

Sunscreen – Sunscreens have one or more chemicals that absorb or disperse ultraviolet rays. Sun protection factor (SPF) is a numerical rating that indicates a specific amount of protection. You should wear a sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 15, but those with fair skin should use an SPF of 30 or higher. Due to exposure to water, weather, and perspiration, you should reapply sunscreen at least every two hours. 

Clothing – Long-sleeved shirts and long pants provide protection from the sun’s rays. Darker clothing with a tight weave provides more protection from the sun than light-colored, loose-fitting clothing. Special SPF or UV-resistant clothing is available to reduce exposing your skin to the UV rays.

Hats – When it comes to sun protection, not all hats are created equal. You should wear a wide-brimmed (minimum of three inches wide) hat with flaps or drapes to provide sun protection for your eyes, ears, and neck.  

Wide Brimmed Hat

Wide Brimmed Hat. Photo Souce: Penn State University

Sunglasses – To reduce the risk of eye damage from the sun, wear sunglasses with UV protection. When purchasing UV-blocking sunglasses, look for labels that indicate “UV absorption” or “meets ANSI UV requirements.” Long-term exposure of your eyes to the sun could cause pterygium (thickening of the outer coating of the eye), cataracts, and possibly macular degeneration.

Medications – Check both your prescription and over-the-counter medications concerning whether the medication creates sensitivity to sunlight, and discuss options with your physician.

Diseases – Sun exposure can be problematic for people with certain types of diseases or health conditions.  Discuss your medical condition and sun exposure with your physician.

 

Use the following format to cite this article:

Sun exposure and agriculture. (2012) Farm and Ranch eXtension in Safety and Health (FReSH) Community of Practice. Retrieved from http://www.extension.org/pages/63042/sun-exposure-and-agriculture.

 

Citations

 

Jepsen, S. D. & Suchey, J. (2015) Sun exposure (Protect your skin). Ohio State University Extension. Retrieved from http://ohioline.osu.edu/factsheet/aex-79018.

Schwab, C. & Stone, J. (2002) Remember sun safety in the field. Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. Retrieved from https://store.extension.iastate.edu/ItemDetail.aspx?ProductID=4993.

UV radiation. (2010). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.  Retrieved from http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/uvradiation/.  

 

Reviewed and Summarized by:
Linda M. Fetzer, Pennsylvania State University – lmf8@psu.edu
Karen Funkenbusch – University of Missouri – funkenbuschk@missouri.edu
Dennis J. Murphy, Pennsylvania State University (Has since retired)
Charles V. Schwab, Iowa State University – cvschwab@iastate.edu
Aaron M. Yoder, University of Nebraska Medical Center – aaron.yoder@unmc.edu
 
Posted on

Use of Hand Signals in Production Agriculture

 

Use the following format to cite this article:

Use of hand signals in production agriculture. (2012) Agricultural Safety and Health eXtension Community of Practice. Retrieved from https://ag-safety.extension.org/use-of-hand-signals-in-production-agriculture/.

Hand signals are an important means of communication on farms and ranches when noise levels are too loud or the distance is too far between workers to effectively use verbal communication. The American Society of Agricultural Engineers (ASAE) developed a standardized set of 11 hand signals for use in production agriculture to enhance communication and promote safety (ASABE, 2011). With the exception of one hand signal, all of the signals can be completed with the use of one arm.

Hand signals can be used to effectively communicate instructions, save time, and lower the risk of an injury or death. As a farmer or rancher, you need to understand the hand signals and teach the hand signals to those involved in your operation. The ASAE hand signals are shown below:

This far to go (ASAE Figure 1)

ASABE Hand Signal

From ANSI/ASAE Standard S351 FEB1972 (R2011): Hand signals for use in agriculture. Copyright American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers. Used with permission.

Place palms at ear level facing your head and move inward to show the remaining distance to go.

Come to me (ASAE Figure 2)

 

ASABE Hand Signal Fig 2

From ANSI/ASAE Standard S351 FEB1972 (R2011): Hand signals for use in agriculture. Copyright American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers. Used with permission.

 

Raise your arm vertically over your head, palm out to the front, and rotate in large horizontal circles.

Move toward me (ASAE Figure 3)

 

ASABE Hand Signal Fig 3

From ANSI/ASAE Standard S351 FEB1972 (R2011): Hand signals for use in agriculture. Copyright American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers. Used with permission.

 

Point toward the person, vehicle, or unit.  Signal by holding arm horizontally to the front, palm up, and motiong toward the body.

Move out (ASAE Figure 4)

 

ASABE Hand Signal Fig 4

From ANSI/ASAE Standard S351 FEB1972 (R2011): Hand signals for use in agriculture. Copyright American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers. Used with permission.

 

Face the desired direction of movement; hold the arm extended to the rear: then swing the arm overhead and forward in the direction of desired movement until the arm is horizontal with palm down.

Stop (ASAE Figure 5)

 

ASABE Hand Signal Fig 5

From ANSI/ASAE Standard S351 FEB1972 (R2011): Hand signals for use in agriculture. Copyright American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers. Used with permission.

 

Raise the hand upward to the full extent of the arm, palm to the front. Hold that position until the signal is understood.

Increase speed (ASAE Figure 6)

 

ASABE Hand Signal Fig 6

From ANSI/ASAE Standard S351 FEB1972 (R2011): Hand signals for use in agriculture. Copyright American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers. Used with permission.

 

Raise the hand to the shoulder, fist closed; thrust the fist upward to the full extent of the arm and back to the shoulder rapidly several times.

Decrease speed (ASAE Figure 7)

 

ASABE Hand Signal Fig 7

From ANSI/ASAE Standard S351 FEB1972 (R2011): Hand signals for use in agriculture. Copyright American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers. Used with permission.

 

Extend arm horizontally sideward with palm down; wave arm downward at 45 degrees minimum several times.  Do not move your arm above horizontal.

Start the engine (ASAE Figure 8)

ASABE Hand Signal Fig 8

From ANSI/ASAE Standard S351 FEB1972 (R2011): Hand signals for use in agriculture. Copyright American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers. Used with permission.

Move arm in circular motion at waist level to simulate cranking engine.

Stop the engine (ASAE Figure 9)

ASABE Hand Signal Fig 9

From ANSI/ASAE Standard S351 FEB1972 (R2011): Hand signals for use in agriculture. Copyright American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers. Used with permission.

Draw right hand, palm down, across your neck in a “throat-cutting” motion left to right.

Lower equipment (ASAE Figure 10)

ASABE Hand Signal Fig 10

From ANSI/ASAE Standard S351 FEB1972 (R2011): Hand signals for use in agriculture. Copyright American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers. Used with permission.

Use circular motion with either hand pointing to the ground.

Raise equipment (ASAE Figure 11)

ASABE Hand Signal Fig 11

From ANSI/ASAE Standard S351 FEB1972 (R2011): Hand signals for use in agriculture. Copyright American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers. Used with permission.

Make circular motion with either hand at head level.

Resources:

Click HERE for on Hazardous Occupations Safety Training in Agriculture (HOSTA) Task Sheet 2.9 to see diagrams and examples of when to use each of the hand signals.

Use the following format to cite this article:

Use of hand signals in production agriculture. (2012)Agricultural Safety and Health eXtension Community of Practice. Retrieved from https://ag-safety.extension.org/use-of-hand-signals-in-production-agriculture/.

Sources

American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers (ASABE). 2011. ANSI/ASAE S351 FEB1972 (R2007), Hand Signals for Use in Agriculture. ASABE Standards 2011. St. Joseph, MI: ASABE.

National safe tractor and machinery operation program: Student manual revised third edition. (2020) Penn State Extension. Not available online.

Johnson, S. & Murphy, D. (2008) Agricultural hand signals. Pennsylvania State University College of Agricultural Sciences Cooperative Extension. Retrieved from http://extension.psu.edu/business/ag-safety/vehicles-and-machinery/gener….

Reviewed and Summarized by:
Linda M. Fetzer, Pennsylvania State University – lmf8@psu.edu
Dennis J. Murphy, Pennsylvania State University (has since retired)
Charles V. Schwab, Iowa State University (has since retired)
 Aaron M. Yoder, University of Nebraska Medical Center – aaron.yoder@unmc.edu
Posted on

Heat-Related Illnesses and Agricultural Producers

Sunset photo

Sunset Photo

(Source: Penn State Ag Safety and Health)

Use the following format to cite this article:

Heat-related illnesses and agricultural producers. (2019) Farm and Ranch eXtension in Safety and Health (FReSH) Community of Practice. Retrieved from http://www.extension.org/pages/62261/heat-related-illnesses-and-agricultural-producers.

Farmers and ranchers perform job responsibilities in all types of weather conditions including excessive heat and humidity. It is important for agricultural producers to understand risks associated with working in high heat work environments, potential heat-related illnesses, precautionary steps, and appropriate medical responses.

Understanding the Body’s Response to Heat

Our body’s primary defense against heat is through sweating. Sweating allows moisture to collect on the skin and evaporate. Sweating happens when the surrounding environment becomes greater than skin temperature. When this occurs, an internal body system called the sympathetic nervous system releases a chemical called acetylcholine which turns on sweat glands in the skin in an area called the dermis. The sweat glands release moisture and move it to the outer surface of the skin for cooling. However, in hot, humid weather, the moisture does not always evaporate and can collect on the skin causing the body to warm up and the heart to pump more blood to the skin. When this happens, the body starts to sweat excessively and depletes the body of water and electrolytes, which can lead to a heat-related illness.

The range for normal body temperature is between 96° to 100°F. Hard exercise, strenuous work, or fever will usually put the body in a range between 101° to 105°F. At 105° to 107°F, cooling treatment or fever therapy may be needed, and at even higher body temperatures, heat exhaustion and heat stroke usually occur. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke indicate a serious impairment to the body’s cooling system and is a definite signal for medical assistance. Heat stroke or body temperatures beyond 110°F may result in death.

Risk Factors for Heat-Related Illnesses

Everyone is at risk for heat-related illness if they do not follow standard precautionary measures. The following factor(s) can increase the chance for developing one of the five main heat-related illnesses:

  • Being elderly or an infant.
  • Having certain medical conditions such as circulatory problems, heart conditions, or pregnancy.
  • Being physically unfit or overweight.
  • Consuming alcohol and/or drugs (including prescription medication; for example. the medication atropine interferes with the ability to sweat).
  • Having lower heat tolerance levels or not becoming acclimated to working in high heat and humidity.
  • High temperatures and humidity levels in the environment (as well as sun radiation or heat-conducting surfaces like black asphalt).
  • Not having adequate fluid intake levels needed to hydrate the body.
  • Limited air flow or breeze to aid in the cooling process.

Breakdown of Common Heat-Related Illnesses

There are five heat-related illnesses: heat rash, syncope, cramps, exhaustion, and stroke. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are typically the most severe and require immediate medical attention. Figure 1 outlines each illness, typical symptoms, and treatment.

Fig. 1: Breakdown of Heat-Related Illnesses
Heat-Related Illnesses Cause Symptoms Treatment
Heat rash Excessive sweating during humid weather Red, blotchy skin rash; clusters of pimples or small blisters Keep the affected area dry, and treat with cornstarch or powder.  Work in a cooler, less humid work environment.
Heat syncope Prolonged standing or rising suddenly from a sitting or lying position Light-headedness, dizziness, or fainting Move person to a cool place to lie down, elevate the feet, and give liquids to drink.
Heat cramps Loss of body salts and fluids from sweating during strenuous activity Pain in stomach, arms, and/or legs Stop activity, drink clear or sports beverage. Massage affected muscles.
Heat exhaustion Excessive loss of body salts and water from sweating Cool, pale skin, dizziness, headache, cramps, nausea, sweating, weakness, confusion, high body temperature, and unconsciousness Have the person drink plenty of cool fluids, remove excess clothing, and apply cool compresses. Call for medical attention.
Heat stroke System that regulates body temperature fails and the body temperature rises to critical levels High temperature, hot dry skin, slurred speech, confusion, loss of consciousness, and seizures Immediately call for medical assistance. Move the person to a cool place, and slightly elevate the head and shoulders. Remove outer clothing, and cool the body with water, wet towels, or sheets.

Recommendations to Avoid Heat-Related Problems

  • Do not wait until you are thirsty – drink approximately 8 oz. (1 cup) of water every 15 to 30 minutes.
  • Take a 15-minute break in a shaded area every two hours.
  • Monitor the weather, and schedule strenuous work activities accordingly to reduce exposure to high heat situations.
  • Wear light-colored, lightweight, and loose-fitting clothing.
  • Avoid the use of alcohol, drugs, caffeine, and large amounts of sugar when exposed to heat because they can increase your rate of dehydration.
  • Check your prescriptions and over-the-counter medications to determine if there are any side effects when you are exposed to heat.
  • Appropriately wear specialized protective gear such as cooling vests to reduce your risk of a heat illness;  if used inappropriately, heat illness can actually increase.
  • Learn about prevention of heat illness and teach your workers about health and safety instructions related to working in hot weather and appropriate responses to heat-related illnesses.
  • Gradually build up a tolerance to working in the heat. If a person has a severely low tolerance to heat, that person may need to perform tasks that limit exposure to the heat.
  • Certain types of personal protective equipment (PPE) can increase the risk of heat stress, such as protective suiting. Schedule jobs that require PPE during cooler times of the day.
  • Recognize the conditions that can affect body heat such as fever, physically strenuous work, and even time of day (for example, body temperature is higher in late afternoons).
  • Talk to your physician if you have a chronic health condition or disability (e.g., spinal cord injuries, multiple sclerosis) before working in the heat.

View the U.S. Agricultural Safety and Health Centers video below to learn about the risk of heat-related illnesses for outdoor workers.

Additional Resources:

Beat the Heat by Upper Midwest Agricultural Safety and Health (UMASH)

Heat Illness and Agriculture by Penn State Extension

Heat Illness Prevention: Training Materials for Educators by Pacific Northwest Ag Safety and Health (PNASH)

Use the following format to cite this article:

Heat-related illnesses and agricultural producers. (2019) Farm and Ranch eXtension in Safety and Health (FReSH) Community of Practice. Retrieved from http://www.extension.org/pages/62261/heat-related-illnesses-and-agricultural-producers.

Sources

Heat stress. (2011). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved from http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/heatstress/.

Jepsen, S.D., McGuire, K. & Poland, D. (2011) Secondary injury prevention: Heat stress. The Ohio State University. Retrieved from http://ohioline.osu.edu/factsheet/AEX-981.4-10.

Murphy, D. (n.d.). Heat illness and agriculture. Pennsylvania State University College of Agricultural Science Cooperative Extension. Retrieved from https://extension.psu.edu/heat-illness-and-agriculture.

Porth, C.M. (2010). Pathophysiology, 8th ed. Lippincott-Williams.

Protecting workers from the effects of heat. (2011). Occupational Safety and Health Administration Fact Sheet. Retrieved from http://www.osha.gov/OshDoc/data_Hurricane_Facts/heat_stress.pdf.

Reviewed and Summarized by:
Linda M. Fetzer, Pennsylvania State University – lmf8@psu.edu      
Karen Funkenbusch – University of Missouri – funkenbuschk@missouri.edu
Dennis J. Murphy, Pennsylvania State University (Has since retired)
Carla Wilhite, University of New Mexico – CWilhite@salud.unm.edu
Aaron M. Yoder, University of Nebraska Medical Center – aaron.yoder@unmc.edu
Posted on

Youth ATV Safety

ATV Safety Course Photo

(Photo Source: Specialty Vehicle Institute of America, ATV Safety Institute)

Use the following format to cite this article:

Youth ATV safety. (2012) Farm and Ranch eXtension in Safety and Health (FReSH) Community of Practice. Retrieved from http://www.extension.org/pages/62259/youth-atv-safety.

 

Youth operate all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) on farms and ranches and for recreational use. ATVs can be useful for work and a fun mode of transportation; however, injuries from ATV incidents continue to be problematic for farm and rural youth. In 2008, more than 37,000 youth under the age of 16 were treated in hospital emergency rooms across the country due to ATV-related injuries (Consumer Product Safety Commission).

Many of these incidents can be prevented by evaluating the youth’s readiness to operate an ATV by:

  • identifying the correct size of ATV;
  • using personal protective equipment;
  • giving the youth safety instruction, and
  • providing adult supervision. 

Adult supervision of youth ATV operators is essential to ensure that the youth adheres to rules, wears the proper protective equipment, and correctly operates the ATV. Controls such as throttle limiters, exhaust restrictors, and remote shut-off switches are available to assist adults when regulating beginning ATV operators.

Youth Readiness and Size of ATV

Children under 6 should never be on an ATV, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Most ATVs are labeled with a recommended age for that model. The recommended ages for Y-6 models (under 70cc engines) are 6 to 11 years old. The Y-12 models (70 to 90 cc engines) are 12 to 15 years old. However, some states many have specific rules regarding allowable age for operation of ATVs, so it is important to check your state for rules, and while the actual age is the easiest to identify, it should not be the only factor in determine when youth can ride.

Children develop at different rates, so consider each child’s cognitive and physical development when making a decision about their ability to operate an ATV. Cognitive and emotional development is related to the youth’s reasoning ability, memory, discipline, focus, and decision-making skills. Do not overestimate your child’s abilities when it comes to making decisions that will affect his safety. When assessing your child’s cognitive development, determine her level of discipline and her understanding of cause and effect. Be sure that your child understands that if his behavior is unsafe or reckless, the consequence may be an injury or death. Discuss safety scenarios with your youth to ensure that he can provide sensible and safe reactions to the situation.

Physical development includes the youth’s size, strength, visual acuity, and coordination. The following are a few measures you can take to determine if your child is physically ready to operate an ATV:

  • If your child stands on the footrests of the ATV with his hands on the handle bar, are there at least 3 inches of clearance between the ATV seat and the seat of the child’s pants?
  • Can your child operate the throttle and brake lever with one hand?
  • Can your child shift the weight of the ATV side to side by shifting her weight? 

Youth should only operate a four-wheeled ATV because these are more stable and present less risk for a side overturn compared to a three-wheeled ATV.

For beginning riders, choose an ATV with a single speed automatic transmission, and do not equip the ATV with a carrier rack. A load on a carrier rack can shift and possibly alter the ATV’s center of gravity and decrease its stability. There is only one seat for the operator; therefore, passengers are not permitted on an ATV. The following chart is a guideline for the most appropriate-sized ATV engine compared to the youth’s age.  

Figure 1: Operator Age and ATV Engine Size
Age of Operator ATV Engine Size
Under 6 years of age No operation recommended
Age 6 to 11 Under 70cc
Age 12 to 15 70 – 90cc
16 years and older Over 90cc

Different Sized ATVs

Different Sized ATVs. Photo Source: Penn State Ag Safety & Health

(Left to right: 700cc, 90cc, and 50cc. Photo Source: Pennsylvania State University. Agricultural Safety and Health)

 

Protective Gear for ATV Operators

The most important piece of personal protective equipment for an operator is a helmet approved for ATV use.  Helmets should be the correct size for the operator and approved for ATV use by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), U.S. Department of Transportation, or the Snell Memorial Foundation to ensure that it has been safety tested. If the helmet is not equipped with a face shield, wear an ANSI-approved pair of goggles or glasses with hard-coated polycarbonate lenses. When operating an ATV, the child should also wear gloves, boots, long-sleeved shirt or jacket, and long pants.

Maintenance, Specifications, and Operation

Teach your youth the location of the following ATV parts: parking brake, brakes, throttle, engine stop switch, and shift lever (if equipped). Prior to operating the ATV, follow these steps:

  • Check the air pressure in the tires, controls and cables, ignition switch, and oil and fuel levels.
  • Lubricate chains and/or drive-shaft chassis. 
  • Make sure that all nuts and bolts are tightly secured. 

Teach youth the acronym BONE-C which outlines the following steps to properly start an ATV:

  1. B – Brake – Make sure the parking brake is set.
  2. O – On – The ignition and fuel are on.
  3. N – Neutral – ATV should be started in neutral (if equipped)
  4. E – Engine – The stop switch should be in the run or start position.
  5. C – Choke – Choke should be on when starting a cold engine. 

Safety Instruction

Youth should learn to safely operate an ATV in an approved safety training program. 

Click HERE to be directed to ATVSafety.gov to do an online ATV safety training. ATVSafety.gov provides safety information, legislation regarding ATV use, state-specific information about regulations, and contact information for ATV safety training for adults and teens.  

Click HERE to be directed to the ATV Safety Institute for more information about ATV safety and safety training classes in your area.

Click HERE to view a below from the ATV Safety Institute to learn more about their ATV safety training classes.

Additional Safety Recommendations

  • Check your riding area to make sure it is free from hazards such as rocks, stumps, branches, and fences.
  • Know and obey the laws in your area related to ATV operation.
  • Ask permission before riding on private property.
  • Use lights, reflectors, and flags to increase the ATV’s visibility.
  • Do not show off, perform stunts, or speed.
  • ATV tires are not designed for road travel so avoid public roads and paved surfaces because road travel affects the handling and control of the ATV. 
  • Keep the feet on the footrests at all times.
  • Remember that certain ATV parts such as the engine, exhaust pipe, and muffler are hot and can cause burns.
  • Keep the hands and feet away from all moving parts on the ATV.
  • Maintain proper riding posture to help properly operate the controls.   

Resources

  • Click HERE to be directed to the Youth Agricultural Work Guidelines that provides questions designed to help you determine whether your child is ready to operate an ATV or UTV and have a positive agricultural work experience. 
  • Click HERE to be directed to the Children’s Safety Network’s publication titled ‘Focus on All-Terrain Vehicle Safety: Resource Guide 2012’.

 

 

 

Use the following format to cite this article:

Youth ATV safety. (2012) Farm and Ranch eXtension in Safety and Health (FReSH) Community of Practice. Retrieved from http://www.extension.org/pages/62259/youth-atv-safety.

 

Sources

2008 annual report of ATV-related deaths and injuries. (2010). Consumer Product Safety Commission. Retrieved from https://www.cpsc.gov/s3fs-public/pdfs/atv2008.pdf.

Youth agricultural work guidelines. (2017)National Children’s Center for Rural and Agricultural Health and Safety. Retrieved from https://cultivatesafety.org/safety-guidelines-search/?category=familyyouth.

Murphy, D. & Harshman, W. (2005). ATVs and youth: Matching children and vehicles. Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences Cooperative Extension. Retrieved from https://extension.psu.edu/atvs-and-youth-matching-children-and-vehicles.

Parents, youngsters, and all-terrain vehicles (2010) ATV Safety Institute. Retrieved from https://www.cohv.ca/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/parents-youngsters-atvs-2….

Schwab, C., Miller, L. & Satre, S. (2008) ATV safety for farm work, recreation. Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Safe Farm. Retrieved from https://store.extension.iastate.edu/ItemDetail.aspx?ProductID=5065

 

Reviewed and Summarized by:
Linda M. Fetzer, Pennsylvania State University – lmf8@psu.edu
S. Dee Jepson, Ohio State University – jepsen.4@osu.edu 
Dennis J. Murphy, Pennsylvania State University – (Has since retired)
Michael Pate, Pennsylvania State University – mlp79@psu.edu
Aaron M. Yoder, University of Nebraska Medical Center – aaron.yoder@unmc.edu
Posted on

Hearing Loss and Protection for Agricultural Producers

Hearing protection

Photos provided by the Central States Center for Agricultural Safety and Health (CS-CASH)

Use the following format to cite this article:

Hearing loss and protection for agricultural producers. (2012) Farm and Ranch eXtension in Safety and Health (FReSH) Community of Practice. Retrieved from http://www.extension.org/pages/62258/hearing-loss-and-protection-for-agricultural-producers.

 

Farmers and ranchers are exposed to loud noises in their work environment on a daily basis. Gradual hearing loss is common during the aging process, but noise-induced hearing loss can occur at any age. Noise-induced hearing loss is a result of exposure to high-intensity noise without proper hearing protection. Noise-induced hearing loss is preventable by reducing the level of noise at its source and correctly wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).  

Mechanics of Hearing and Hearing Loss

Sound goes into the ear canal and strikes the eardrum causing it to vibrate. The vibrations create waves that travel to the middle ear forming waves in the cochlea. The cochlea contains small hairlike cells called cilia that wave when they come in contact with the vibration. Once the vibration enters the cochlea, these waves send a signal to the brain which interprets them as sounds. Hearing loss occurs when the cilia become flattened and eventually destroyed  from overstimulation of sound that is too loud or that lasts too long. Once  these hair cells (cilia) are destroyed they can never be replaced causing permanent hearing loss.

Noise Levels and Duration

Sound loudness or intensity is measured in decibels (dB). In the United States, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) establishes guidelines regarding exposure to high levels of noise and recommends that hearing protection be used when you are exposed to a minimum sound level of 90 dB for eight hours. However, some individuals have developed noise-induced hearing loss at lower levels. The following table shows the noise exposure levels, maximum time durations set by OSHA, and examples of home and farm equipment with those sound levels.

 
Duration per day (hours) Sound level dB Examples of noise source at sound levels
8 90 Tractor, combine, or ATV
6 92 Tractor or combine
4 95 Tractor, grain grinding, combine, or air compressor
3 97 Tractor, combine, or shop vacuum
2 100 Tractor, pigs squealing, or table saw
1 1/2 102 Tractor, combine, or riding lawnmower
1 105 Tractor, combine, chickens, or irrigation pump
1/2 110 Tractor or leaf blower
1/4 115 Chainsaw

 

Four Ways to Prevent Noise-Induced Hearing Loss

  1. Noise reduction – An easy way to reduce noise levels on your farm or ranch is to pay close attention to equipment maintenance such as regular lubrication and replacement of parts. Operating  larger equipment at a lower speed can also reduce noise levels. The installation of vibration isolation pads under the legs of noisy equipment can reduce the noise from equipment vibration on a cement floor. Newer models of certain handheld equipment are equipped with flexible mountings to reduce noise from vibration.
  2. Noise isolation – When purchasing equipment, consider buying a tractor or skid-steer that is equipped with sound-reducing cabs and tightly fitting cab doors and windows. These changes can reduce the amount of noise that you hear inside the cab when operating the equipment.
  3. Administrative Controls – As an employer, you can control your workers’ exposure to noise by rotating their workstations to limit their exposure time to jobs with high noise levels. Set up a rotation that allows a worker to operate a noisy machine for a specific period of time and then rotate that person to a less noisy task. If a person already has a hearing problem, he or she should not work in high noise areas.
  4. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) – Use and require your employees to use personal protective equipment such as earplugs and ear muffs to reduce noise exposure. 

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Hearing personal protective equipment (PPE) is measured according to its noise reduction rating (NRR) which is a single number that indicates the reduction in decibels when the PPE is properly used. Hearing PPE should have a noise reduction rating of at least 25 decibels. Remember that the rating is achieved only when the equipment is properly fitted and worn for the recommended period of time. Earplugs and ear muffs are the most widely used personal protective equipment to reduce noise levels.

Earplugs

Earplugs are either disposable or reusable.

Disposable earplugs:

  • Are designed to fit into the ear opening.
  • Should never be shared with others to reduce the risk of ear infections.
  • Should be disposed of once removed from the ear. 

Reusable earplugs:

  • Are either pre-molded, moldable, or custom fit.
  • Have a limited usage period. 
  • Should be disposed of when they are cracked, dirty, no longer pliable, or permanently deformed. 

Ear Muffs

Ear muffs are designed to cover the ear and ear canal, so it is important to use muffs that are comfortable and fit properly. They can be used for years, and certain models can be used in combination with other safety equipment such as goggles, a hard hat, or respiratory protection. Remember that hearing protection needs to be used whenever you are exposed to loud noises.

When to Visit the Audiologist

An audiologist can perform a specialized hearing test called an audiogram to detect and diagnose hearing loss. You cannot fix hearing loss once it has started, but you can prevent the damage to your hearing from getting worse. The following are a few signs that you may have a problem with your hearing:

  • You are turning up the volume on the TV or radio.
  • You have difficulty understanding consonants in words and high notes of music.
  • You have difficulty hearing a person’s voice when they are standing only a few feet away.
  • Sound may be muffled after noise is stopped.
  • You have ringing in your ears.

 

  

 

Use the following format to cite this article:

Hearing loss and protection for agricultural producers. (2012) Farm and Ranch eXtension in Safety and Health (FReSH) Community of Practice. Retrieved from http://www.extension.org/pages/62258/hearing-loss-and-protection-for-agricultural-producers.

 

Sources

Murphy, D., Robertson, S., & Harshman, W. (2007) Noise induced hearing loss in agriculture. Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences Cooperative Extension.  Retrieved from https://extension.psu.edu/noise-induced-hearing-loss-in-agriculture.

Schwab, C., Freeman, S. & Miller, L. (2001) Lend an ear to hearing protection. Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. Retrieved from https://store.extension.iastate.edu/ItemDetail.aspx?ProductID=4995.

 
 
Reviewers, Contributors and Summarized by:
Linda M. Fetzer, Pennsylvania State University – lmf8@psu.edu
Karen Funkenbusch, University of Missouri – funkenbuschk@missouri.edu
Dennis J. Murphy, Pennsylvania State University (Has since retired)
Charles V. Schwab, Iowa State University – cvschwab@iastate.edu        
Aaron M. Yoder, University of Nebraska Medical Center – aaron.yoder@unmc.edu
Posted on

Safety in Agriculture for Youth

Safety in Agriculture for Youth (SAY) is a grant project funded by the US Department of Agriculture (USDA), National Institute of Food and Agriculture to develop a sustainable and accessible national clearinghouse for agricultural safety and health curriculum for youth. For the funding period of 2021 – 2025, the SAY Project now consists of three funded project that each focus on a different aspect of youth farm safety. The projects are housed at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, the Ohio State University and Utah State University and will respectively focus on the SAY National Clearinghouse Project (e.g., SAY Clearinghouse, curricula submission and review, and marketing), Youth Farm Safety Education and Certification (YFSEC) Instructor Training and YFSEC Youth Training.

***New Resources***

Teacher resource guides will assist instructors with integrating curricula hosted in the SAY Clearinghouse by providing teaching methods to instructors on preparing students with safety instruction. The following teacher resource guides are available:

Foundational Safety Related Technical Knowledge and Skills – Teacher Resource Guide: Grain Safety Example

Animal Systems Career Pathway Teacher Resource Guide – Right from the Start: Safety Awareness for Livestock Producers

Animal Systems Career Pathway Teacher Resource Guide – Positive Animal Handling (Stockmanship) on Dairy Farms

Power, Structural and Technical System Teacher Resource Guide –

SAY National Clearinghouse

The SAY National Clearinghouse consists of two different types of educational products: formal curricula and other supporting resources and provides their alignment to Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources (AFNR) Career Cluster Content Standards related to agricultural safety and health. Click on the link below to access the SAY National Clearinghouse:

         SAY National Clearinghouse

Each educational resource has a page that provides you with a description, type of resource, language (English and/or Spanish), website link to resource, and alignment chart to AFRN standards.

Learn how to use the SAY Clearinghouse through the following videos:

SAY Teacher Update 2017 – Segment 1:  https://youtu.be/M-x-89-zvtQ

SAY Teacher Update 2017 – Segment 2: https://youtu.be/VIxXN-C_5dQ

SAY Teacher Update 2017 – Segment 3: https://youtu.be/Bzj8RSWNKN4

SAY Teacher Update 2017 – Segment 4: https://youtu.be/6T-VJ-JH2mM

Submitting your Ag Safety and Health Curriculum

Click HERE to be directed to submission instructions and link to submit your curriculum through the Curriculum Alignment Submission Tool (CAST).

Belief Statements & Guiding Principles for Youth Working in Ag

The Safety in Agriculture for Youth (SAY) Project National Steering Committee developed a belief statements document regarding youth working in agriculture. The belief statements outline consensus-based beliefs and principles that promote safety and health for youth working in agriculture. Click HERE for more information.

Injury Risk Assessment for SAE

The injury risk assessment for supervised agricultural experience (SAE) was developed by Utah State University through the SAY Project. Click HERE to access all of the components of the risk assessment.

SAY Project eNews

The SAY Project produces an eNews 3-4 times per year which is sent to those on the listserv and the SAY National Steering Committee. Links to the past eNews are below:

July 2021
October 2021
May 2022
August 2022
December 2022
March 2023
June 2023 
September 2023

OSHA 10-Hour General Industry (Agriculture) Course

CareerSafe is now offering an online training course providing training for entry level workers and employers. Visit the SAY National Clearinghouse for more information about the online training course.

National Youth Farm and Ranch Safety Symposium

The National Youth Farm and Ranch Safety Symposium was held in October 2014 in Lexington, KY. Click HERE to learn more about the symposium and to view the presentations.

Connecting with SAY

How to get connected? To stay up-to-date on the SAY Project and its objectives, sign up for alerts by subscribing to the listserv at SAY-L-subscribe-request@lists.psu.edu. Follow SAY on Facebook (AgSafety4u) and Twitter (@AgSafety4u). If you have any feedback or suggestions, email Linda Fetzer at lmf8psu.edu.

Newsletters and Reports

Additional Resources

SAY Project Background

Powerpoint from Webinar on November 14, 2013

Summarized and reviewed by:
Linda M. Fetzer, Penn State University – lmf8@psu.edu

Davis E. Hill, Penn State University (has since retired)

Dennis J. Murphy, Penn State University (has since retired)
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