The Dangers of Agricultural Work

In a difficult economy, it can be challenging to find a steady job. Once you are lucky enough to become gainfully employed, you do not want to do anything to jeopardize that employment. If your boss tells you to do something, you're going to do it. You trust that your employers take your safety as seriously as you take your obligations. While many occupations carry a risk of injury, some are more dangerous than others. Workplace accidents can have very serious consequences for both employers and employees.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the agriculture industry is the third-most dangerous occupation for workers. In 2008, the agency reported that there was a fatality rate of 25.1 deaths per 100,000 workers. Preliminary data released by the California Department of Industrial Regulations states that there were 29 fatalities in the agricultural industry in 2009. With so many different pieces constantly in motion on family or factory farms, worker safety is a main concern everyone involved.

Unfortunately, even when workers are continually on alert for any dangers that may be present, accidents can and do happen. Workers may fall off of or be trapped under farm machinery or equipment. They may be exposed to dangerous chemicals being used throughout the process of planting, maintaining or harvesting crops. They may be working in extreme weather conditions that cause serious health problems. Workers must also be extra cautious around farm animals, as the animals' behavior can be extremely unpredictable.

Workers seriously injured in fields or other remote areas unfortunately cannot get the immediate treatment that is often necessary to save their lives. Many of the farms are located in rural communities that make it difficult to get to hospitals that are equipped to handle the seriousness of the injuries sustained.