PA farm deaths - rollover protection key to safety

By Blake Jackson

A new report by Penn State's College of Agricultural Sciences highlights the ongoing need for farm safety education and improved policies in Pennsylvania. The report, "2023 Pennsylvania Farm Fatal Injury Summary," details 33 farm-related deaths in the state last year. This number, while lower than 2022's 37, remains above the 10-year average of 28.

Similar to national trends, young children and older adults were disproportionately affected. Six victims were under 10, and 13 were 65 or older. Notably, three of the youngest victims were presumed to be Amish, and over 80% of fatalities were men.

Tractor-related incidents, a leading cause of farm deaths nationwide, claimed 13 lives. Five deaths involved tractor overturns, with all operators pinned or trapped beneath the vehicle. The report emphasizes the importance of ROPS (rollover protection structures) and seatbelt use – a combination 99.9% effective in preventing serious rollover injuries.

The report also highlights the growing use and dangers of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and utility task vehicles (UTVs) on farms. Two fatalities, one rollover and one collision, involved these machines. Skid-steer loaders and wagons were also linked to deaths.

Other causes included falls, animal-related incidents, and contact with equipment. The report urges extra caution for older farmers and family members when working with equipment, at heights, or around large animals.

For young children, proper supervision and establishing boundaries around hazards are crucial. The report advises educating children about dangers like manure pits, grain bins, and operating machinery. Parents seeking childcare resources can utilize Pennsylvania's Compass website.

Penn State Extension offers many resources to promote farm safety and health, including educational materials, videos, and courses. The report calls for collaboration between policymakers, educational institutions, and others to address farm safety concerns. By prioritizing these efforts, the goal is to prevent farm-related deaths and injuries across the entire food supply chain.