By Justin Walker
Communications Specialist
Farm and ranch safety is a priority, and the 2018 Ag Safety Awareness Program Week serves as a reminder as planting gets underway for much of the Lone Star State.
This year’s safety awareness week is set for March 4-10. The theme, “No One Can Take Your Place,” hopes to keep those close to agriculture safe and healthy by helping them recognize common agricultural hazards.
The American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) is joined by the U.S. Agricultural Safety and Health Centers in promoting awareness of common hazards farmers and ranchers may encounter.
Multiple online seminars will be available throughout the week and a specific focus will be highlighted each day.
The seminar on Monday, March 5, will focus on hearing protection. Studies show 44 percent of Midwestern farmers report noise-induced hearing loss symptoms, but less than a third of those farmers report using hearing protection devices. Dr. Jenna Gibbs of the University of Iowa Public Health will discuss current research on the issue. The webinar is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. CT.
Ted Matthews of the Minnesota Department of Agriculture will host a webinar on Friday, March 9, on the importance of taking care of yourself. The webinar will revolve around how many people focus on how they help others at work, while ignoring taking care of themselves. Mathews will discuss that topic and will also add a few general mental health matters. The webinar is schedule for 11 p.m. CT.
Other themes include respiratory health on Tuesday, March 6; distracted and impaired driving on Wednesday, March 7; and fire safety on Thursday, March 8.
Learn more about the program and schedule by visiting the 2018 Ag Safety Awareness Program Week website.