Illinois Department of Agriculture dedicated to farm safety
SPRINGFIELD, IL – As another harvest season begins, the Illinois Department of Agriculture reminds all farm workers to stay safe, especially during the upcoming and busy harvest season.
Each year since 1944, the third week of September has been recognized as National Farm Safety and Health Week. Governor Pritzker has proclaimed the week of September 15-21, 2019 National Farm Safety and Health Week in Illinois, with the theme “Shift Farm Safety into High Gear”.
The latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics shows the agriculture sector is still the most dangerous in America. Each year the farming profession sees 581 fatalities, which equals 23 deaths per 100,000 workers.
“As a farmer, I know firsthand the hazards of the farming industry, whether in the field, on the road or with our health,” said John Sullivan, Director, Illinois Department of Agriculture. “Dedicating a week each year to highlight farm safety, especially around the busy time of harvest will hopefully bring awareness and prevent accidents.”
Each day during National Farm Safety and Health Week, the Illinois Department of Agriculture will highlight emerging issues and important topics on Facebook and Twitter.
• Monday, Sept. 16: Tractor Safety & Rural Roadway Safety
• Tuesday, Sept. 17: Farmer Health & Opioid/Suicide Prevention
• Wednesday, Sept. 18: Safety & Health for Youth in Agriculture
• Thursday, Sept. 19: Confined Spaces in Agriculture
• Friday, Sept. 20: Safety & Health for Women in Agriculture
Follow the Illinois Department of Agriculture on social media for these important updates throughout Farm Safety and Health Week.
