In honor of National Farm Safety Week, the Illinois Farm Bureau (IFB) is collaborating with the National Education Center for Agricultural Safety (NECAS) to promote farm safety and health. National Farm Safety and Health Week is from September 15th to 21st, 2024. This year’s theme, “Don’t Learn Safety by Accident,” is dedicated to raising awareness about the hazards of working in agriculture. It emphasizes the importance of the health and safety of those who work tirelessly to provide our abundant supply of food, fiber, and fuel.
“We’re excited to help promote and support NECAS’s efforts in keeping farmers and farm families safe,” said Katie Laleman, Manager, Henry County Farm Bureau. “Harvest season can be particularly dangerous for farmers with long hours and stress of weather delays, equipment breakdowns or high operating costs, and this year’s activities will reinforce the importance of organizations like ours working together to ensure farmers make it home safely to their families at night.”
Each day of the week has a designated topic of focus to promote various aspects of farm safety:
- Monday, Sept. 16 – Equipment and Rural Roadway Safety
- Tuesday, Sept. 17 – Health and Wellness
- Wednesday, Sept. 18 – Generations of Farming
- Thursday, Sept. 19 – Confined Spaces
- Friday, Sept. 20 – Reporting Ag Injuries
The 2021 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reveals that the agricultural sector remains the most hazardous industry in America, with 453 fatalities, equating to 19.5 deaths per 100,000 workers. Fall harvest time is particularly busy and perilous for those in agriculture. Consequently, the third week of September has been designated as National Farm Safety and Health Week to emphasize the importance of safety and health in this critical industry.
“Farmers are notorious for their work ethic and determination, both qualities that also can be a detriment when it comes to safety,” said Laleman. “While farm safety is top of mind every week for farmers, their families and their employees, National Farm Safety and Health Week is an opportunity to spotlight safety reminders that keep those both inside and outside the agriculture industry aware and mindful during the busy harvest season.”
For more information about National Farm Safety and Health Week, contact your local county Farm Bureau, visit www.necasag.org, or contact Donna Gallivan at 309-557-2350 or [email protected].