AGRICULTURAL SAFETY BEGINS WITH THE FARMER

The phrase "hazardous occupation" typically brings to mind the jobs held by steelworkers, miners or explosive experts. In fact, statistics seem to indicate that a closer-to-home vocation farming carries with it a heavy risk. While this probably comes as no surprise to farmers, the statistics become for them a useful reminder about the need to be safety-conscious ... and should give the rest of us a renewed appreciation for the work of the agricultural community.

A University of Missouri expert in agricultural safety, speaking at a county workshop last week, said that farming was statistically the most dangerous American occupation in 1991. As a vocation, it supplanted mining for this unsettling distinction. For every 100,000 farm workers, there were 44 accidental deaths last year. In one recent year, 38 Missouri farmers died in on-the-job accidents.

Those familiar with work on the farm likely can pinpoint the hazards: high-powered machinery, heavy objects, well-kept but timeworn equipment, noxious chemicals and fatigue-inducing days are just part of the occupation's rigors. The components are in place for mishaps; even the most careful farmer can find himself in a situation of personal danger.

Good agricultural safety practices should be adopted, not only for reasons of personal well-being, but to keep government regulatory agencies from extending their reach to the family farm. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration mandates certain safety standards for larger farming operations, but not family farms. A continued upsurge in agricultural accidents would increase the likelihood of new federal rules being put in place. Given the independence associated with family farming, few would expect this development to be greeted warmly.

Farmers, who should know best about what it takes to protect themselves, must remain vigilant in efforts to ensure safe working conditions. Common sense should dictate. When questions arise about hazards on the farm, extension service representatives can be contacted for answers. Passing tricks of the farming trade on to the next generation should include the teaching of safety practices. America depends on its farmers. Farmers should depend on themselves to create a work environment that is as safe as possible.