Farming and ranching are notoriously hazardous and dangerous industries. In fact, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 573 fatalities were reported among agricultural workers in 2019 alone. And these two essential industries have always been at the top of the list of most dangerous careers.
In response to the risks posed in these industries, the National Safety Council founded the National Farm Safety & Health Week. This annual event raises awareness of various hazards and provides resources for mitigating common dangers or raising awareness of important safety and health topics.
National Farm Safety & Health week dates to 1944, when the first of this nationwide event was recognized—proclaimed by then President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Since, it’s been celebrated on the third week of September every year. Mid-September signals the beginning of harvest season—the ideal time to talk about farming safety.
With the arrival of harvest season comes greater risk of injury and even death. Farming vehicles take to public roads. Farmhands join the day-to-day operation to harvest fresh fruits and vegetables. And large machinery lumbers into the fields.
Each annual National Farm Safety & Health Week delves into different topics and provides various resources. The 2023 edition offers webinars every day, from Monday, September 18, till Friday, September 22.
These National Farm Safety & Health Week webinars are free to attend—although registration is required. View the full schedule at The National Education Center for Agricultural Safety’s website here.
Daily Topics of Focus for National Farm Safety and Health Week 2023
Monday, September 18 – Equipment and Rural Roadway Safety
Tuesday, September 19 – Health and Wellness
Wednesday, September 20 – Priority Populations
Thursday, September 21 – Confined Spaces
Friday, September 22 – Brain Health
Farmers face unique challenges when it comes to health and safety. Both mental and physical health challenges combine to put farmers in the crossfire of illnesses, injury and even premature death. The topics of this year’s National Farm Safety & Health Week tackle many of these topics and provide meaningful resources to help farmers.
As a provider of impact-resistant safety eyewear, Edge is happy to help raise awareness of these important topics. Farmers and ranchers are essential to the viability of our communities and the health of our economy. Join us in celebrating and supporting farmers this week. And help us spread these messages by joining us on social or sharing our blog.