As you may know, agricultural work is one of the most dangerous industries in the United States. However, it is a critical lifeline for the people in this country and beyond, so it must be done.
Even though agricultural work is dangerous, there are ways that workers can take caution to protect themselves. Here are three safety tips agricultural workers can follow to stay safe:
#1 - Know about the dangers of chemicals.
Many chemicals used in the agriculture industry are not truly safe for humans in every capacity. That is why it is so critical to understand the consequences of failing to properly handle toxic chemicals.
For example, it’s common for farm chemicals to contain anhydrous ammonia. The solution contains no water, so when moisture is added, it combines with it rapidly.
This is beneficial for plants because the chemical quickly mixes in with the moisture in the soil to advance growth. However, when the solution comes into contact with the human body, particularly the eyes, skin, or mucous membranes, it can easily cause dehydration and significant burn injuries.
#2 - Use personal protective equipment.
It may be wise to utilize the following types of protective equipment in order to maintain protection from toxic chemicals:
- Chemical-proof goggles,
- Rubber gloves, and
- A heavy-duty long-sleeved shirt
In addition, some chemicals may require the use of a respirator.
#3 - Be diligent about safety checks.
Even though these checks can be a pain sometimes, they are so important for maintaining a safe work environment. It’s critical that the preoperational safety checks are conducted, adequate operating procedures are reviewed, and to make sure that all tractor safety markings are not worn, damaged, or removed.
We’re Here to Help
If you’ve been hurt while working in the agricultural industry, we want to help you recover the damages you deserve.
Contact Rancaño & Rancaño, APLC today by calling (916) 884-6554 or by filling out the online contact form with the details of your case to learn more about how we can help you.
