Prairie State Wire

As the fall harvest season approaches, the Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) and the Illinois Department of Labor (IDOL) are urging farmers to prioritize safety. Governor Pritzker has declared September 18-22, 2023, as National Farm Safety and Health Week in Illinois.

"Bringing awareness to the general risks associated with day-to-day operations on Illinois farms and our state's leading industry is something I understand firsthand," stated Jerry Costello II, Director of the Illinois Department of Agriculture. He emphasized that ensuring the safety and health of farmers and farm workers remains a top priority.

Statistics from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics indicate that agriculture is one of America's most hazardous sectors, with over 500 fatalities annually. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) reports that tractor overturns are a significant cause of farmworker injuries and deaths, resulting in approximately 130 fatalities each year nationwide.

Erik Kambarian, Chief of IL Occupational Safety and Health, highlighted the importance of adhering to best practices during this busy period: "As we enter the hectic harvest season, it is critically important to follow best practices to safeguard farmers' and farm workers' safety." He stressed the need for caution around grain storage facilities due to their potential dangers.

Farmers on Illinois roads must ensure visibility by displaying fluorescent orange Slow Moving Vehicle triangles on all farm vehicles traveling public roads. Tractors and other equipment should have adequate lighting as well. Drivers should be aware that operators often have limited rear visibility; thus, passing these vehicles requires extreme caution.

Each day during National Farm Safety and Health Week focuses on specific topics:

- Monday: Equipment and Rural Roadway Safety

- Tuesday: Health and Wellness

- Wednesday: Priority Populations

- Thursday: Confined Spaces

- Friday: Brain Health

National Farm Safety and Health Week has been recognized since 1944 during the third week of September.