Week of National Farm Safety

For many areas of the country, the fall harvest season is one of the busiest, but also one of the most dangerous for our nation’s farmers and farm workers. Data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics shows the agriculture industry is consistently at the highest risk for occupational injuries and fatalities, with 511 fatalities in 2020, or an equivalent of 21.5 deaths per 100,000 workers. Farming is also one of the few industries in which family members, including children, are also at risk for fatal and nonfatal injuries.

Join CDC’s National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) in recognizing the contributions of our nation’s agriculture workers by learning more about the hazards farmers and farm workers face every day, as well as illness and injury prevention efforts for this critical workforce.

Did you know?

• Rural roads pose special dangers especially during harvest season. Watch out for slow-moving farm vehicles and be informed, aware, and patient while sharing rural roadways.
• Farm Stress is real, and many things like weather events, tragedies, market uncertainty, or diseases can tip us out of our comfort zone. Learn how you can support a farmer or farm family member who might need help.
• Every day, about 33 children are seriously injured in agricultural-related incidents. Protect the future of agriculture by keeping children and youth safe on the farm.
• Hazardous gasses on farms can be found in silos, manure storages, grain bins, and other confined spaces. Be in the know about hazardous gasses and where they can be found on farms.
• Women have always played a vital role on the farm, but women now fill more farm roles than ever before. Learn more about safety and health for women working on farms.

NIOSH has an extensive Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing (AgFF) Research Program, which works to reduce the high risks of injuries and illnesses experienced by workers in this industry.

NIOSH also supports extramural research and prevention programs including 11 regional Centers for Agricultural Safety and Health and the National Children’s Center for Rural and Agriculture Health and Safety. (Ag Centers). These Centers conduct research on injuries associated with agriculture, as well as pesticide exposure, pulmonary disease, musculoskeletal disorders, hearing loss, and stress. These Centers provide an array of trainings and resources, as well as expertise to various public interest and policy groups.