National Farm Safety and Health Week is September 15 – 21, 2024. This annual event was put in place by U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1944. For the past 80 years, the nation continues to commemorate safety education for farm workers and farm families. The 2024 theme is “Don’t Learn Safety by Accident.”
What is an accident?
Traditionally, we think of accidents as random or unexplained events that can't be avoided. However, many accidents are actually the result of conditions that could have been detected or prevented. These conditions might involve either the person or the equipment. By recognizing and addressing any precursor conditions, we can significantly reduce the likelihood of an accident occurring.
Re-evaluating our view of accidents
A good characteristic about humans, is that we can train our brain to think differently about a problem or situation. It takes hard work to change old habits – and this also applies to how we view the word accident. Changing our perspective on accidents can lead to a safer environment for everyone.
In the public safety sector, the Department of Public Safety shifted their language from "car accidents" to "automobile collisions" and from "plane accidents" to "airplane crashes." This change in terminology reflects a more proactive approach to safety—one that focuses on the obvious fact that an incident occurred, as opposed to fostering a state of helplessness that couldn’t have been avoided.
In some industries, like farming, serious injuries have historically been accepted as "part of the job." Another common thought is the “it won’t happen to me” mentality. Both of these attitudes can be detrimental to safety practices. They may lead to ignoring the value of personal protective equipment (PPE) or pushing equipment beyond its limits in an effort to complete tasks. It’s crucial to address these issues by fostering a culture where safety is prioritized and actively discussed and practiced, no matter the size of the chore or the busyness of the season.
Preventing injuries
Most incidents are preventable if we address the underlying causes. Many times the accident wasn’t caused by one action, but rather through multiple causes that led up to the outcome. For example, regular maintenance of equipment and prompt repairs can help prevent equipment breakdowns. Simply checking fluids and tire pressure, as well as keeping safety guards in place, helps reduce equipment-related injuries.
For the worker, staying focused on the job and not taking short cuts help maintain the integrity of the work being accomplished and cuts down on the need for reworking the task. Distractions and shortcuts may seem harmless in the moment, but the consequences can be severe and lasting for workers’ health and their career.
Outcomes of Good Safety Practices.
The benefits of good safety practices can be recognized in the work environment.
1. Prevents injuries and fatalities. Proper safety education equips workers with the knowledge and skills to recognize and mitigate potential hazards. When workers understand how to handle equipment safely, use personal protective equipment (PPE) correctly, and follow safety protocols, they are less likely to be involved in incidents that can cause harm.
2. Increases productivity. A well-educated workforce is more efficient and productive. When workers are confident in their ability to safely perform their tasks, they are less likely to experience disruptions, which in turn can reduce the frequency of downtime caused by accidents or injuries.
3. Reduces costs. Injuries can be costly for the operation. A safer work environment reduces the likelihood of medical and workers' compensation claims, as well as equipment damage and replacement.
4. Improves morale. Workers who feel safe and well-prepared are more likely to be satisfied with their jobs. A safe environment also provides a positive work environment.
5. Promotes a culture of safety. When farm workers are trained to value and practice safety, it creates a collective mindset for that operation. This mindset encourages everyone to adhere to safety recommendations and take responsibility for maintaining a safe work environment. Establishing a safety culture is not a one-time event but an ongoing process that requires continuous effort on behalf of everyone in the operation.
Conclusion
By changing our mindset, identifying precursor conditions, and actively promoting safety, we can make significant strides in preventing accidents and ensuring a safer environment for everyone. Remember, safety is not just about reacting to incidents but proactively preventing them.