1
|
Johnson AB, Gilblom EA, Sahr S, Sang HI. Tractor Injuries in the Upper Midwestern United States: a retrospective analysis of four trauma centers. J Agromedicine 2024; 29:206-213. [PMID: 38235575 PMCID: PMC11015534 DOI: 10.1080/1059924x.2024.2305333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The purpose of the present study was to characterize the incidence, injury characteristics, and outcomes of patients presented to four trauma facilities located in the upper Midwest with tractor-related agricultural injuries. METHODS We performed a retrospective review of the facility level trauma registries of four trauma centers located in North Dakota, South Dakota, and Minnesota between January 1, 2010 and December 31, 2021. We characterized the incidence, severity and outcomes of traumatic tractor-related agricultural injuries for pediatric and adult patients. We described the nature of these injuries by severity, anatomical site, type, age, sex, and length of stay (LoS). Injury severity was evaluated using Injury Severity Score (ISS) and Abbreviated Injury Scale (AIS). RESULTS Findings indicated that farmers aged 65 and older experience polytraumatic, severe tractor-related agricultural injuries and fatalities. Of the 177 tractor patients analyzed, 40 patients were between the ages of 65 and 74 years and 45 patients were 75 and over. Male farmers aged 65 and older are injured year-round, many are discharged to skilled nursing facilities for additional care, are spending more time in the hospital, and have the highest rate of critical injuries out of all age groups. Moreover, the patients who died as a result of tractor-related agricultural injuries were men over 65 years. The most common tractor-related agricultural injuries include falls from tractors (n = 53), struck by object falling/propelled from tractor (n = 25), rollovers (n = 26), and runovers (n = 24). Falls from tractors accounted for 33% of all tractor-related upper extremity fractures, 36% of head injuries and 29% of chest injuries. CONCLUSION The findings from this study indicate that tractor-related agricultural injuries represent a significant problem in the upper Midwest. Older, male farm workers experience a higher incidence of tractor-related agricultural injuries, and all tractor-related fatalities occurred in individuals 65 years of age and older. These results underscore the need for further investigation into aging-related farm safety issues.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sheryl Sahr
- Trauma Services, Sanford Medical Center Fargo, Fargo, ND, USA
- University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Surgery, Grand Forks, ND, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
2
|
Sorensen JA, Milkovich PJ, Khorsandi F, Gorucu S, Weichelt BP, Scott E, Johnson A. Tractors, Trees, and Rollover Protective Structures: A Cause for Concern. J Agromedicine 2024; 29:162-167. [PMID: 38240313 DOI: 10.1080/1059924x.2024.2305322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
Injury and fatality events that are caused by tree work and tractor-related activities contribute to the already elevated rates of work-related injuries in the agriculture and logging sectors. This brief report highlights the circumstances surrounding these events, as well as a number of surveillance sources that identify the extent to which they contribute to the injury burden in these hazardous industries. These data sources include fatality investigations, agricultural injury news reports, consumer product injury data captured from emergency rooms and near-miss reporting data captured from individuals participating in the National Rollover Protective Structure Rebate Program (NRRP). Several recommendations for further research and interventional efforts are outlined, with particular consideration of the manner in which rollbars have been involved in falling object incidents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julie A Sorensen
- Northeast Center for Occupational Health and Safety, Bassett Research Institute, Cooperstown, NY, USA
| | - Pamela J Milkovich
- Northeast Center for Occupational Health and Safety, Bassett Research Institute, Cooperstown, NY, USA
| | - Farzaneh Khorsandi
- Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Serap Gorucu
- Agricultural and Biological Engineering Department, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Bryan P Weichelt
- National Farm Medicine Center • National Children's Center for Rural and Agricultural Health and Safety (NCCRAHS), Marshfield Clinic Research Institute, Marshfield, WI, USA
| | - Erika Scott
- Northeast Center for Occupational Health and Safety, Bassett Research Institute, Cooperstown, NY, USA
| | - Andrew Johnson
- Northeast Center for Occupational Health and Safety, Bassett Research Institute, Cooperstown, NY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Scott KA, Elliott KC, Lincoln J, Flynn MA, Hill R, Hall DM. Rural health and rural industries: Opportunities for partnership and action. J Rural Health 2024; 40:401-405. [PMID: 37669228 PMCID: PMC10912364 DOI: 10.1111/jrh.12791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth A. Scott
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Denver, Colorado, USA
| | - K. C. Elliott
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Anchorage, Alaska, USA
| | - Jennifer Lincoln
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Michael A. Flynn
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Ryan Hill
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Spokane, Washington, USA
| | - Diane M. Hall
- Office of Rural Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Gilblom EA, Sang HI, Johnson AB, Sahr S, Misialek M, Syverson D, Staskywicz Z. Farm Machinery Injuries: A Retrospective Analysis of Admissions at a Level I Trauma Center in North Dakota. J Agromedicine 2023; 28:587-594. [PMID: 36510643 PMCID: PMC10225310 DOI: 10.1080/1059924x.2022.2158151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The purpose of the present study was to characterize the incidence, injury characteristics, and outcomes of patients presented to a Level I adult trauma center in Fargo, North Dakota, with farm machinery injuries (FMI). METHODS We performed a retrospective review of the trauma registry of Sanford Medical Center Fargo (SMCF) between January 2010 and December 2020. We compared admission characteristics of FMI admissions to non-FMI admissions, identified the types of machinery that are most commonly associated with FMI, and described the nature of these injuries by severity, anatomical site, type, age, sex, and length of stay (LoS). Injury severity was evaluated using Injury Severity Score (ISS). RESULTS Findings indicated that FMI admissions had a higher mean ISS, longer ICU LoS, and a higher mortality rate than non-FMI admissions. The leading cause of fatal and non-fatal FMI in this region are tractors. Males experience 91.2% of tractor injuries, and individuals 65 and over account for nearly 53% of all tractor injuries (n = 18). Males accounted for all deaths, tractor and otherwise. The "other machinery" category was the second most common category and accounted for 50% of female patients. Additionally, 24.5% of all FMI are related to machine maintenance. CONCLUSION The findings from this study indicate that FMI injuries represent a significant problem in the upper Midwest. Older, male farm workers experience a higher incidence of tractor-related injuries, and all tractor-related deaths occurred in individuals 65 years of age and older. These results underscore the need for further investigation into aging-related farm safety issues.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A Gilblom
- Educational and Organizational Leadership, College of Human Sciences and Education, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND, USA
| | - Hilla I Sang
- Research Design and Biostatistics Core, Sanford Research, Fargo, ND, USA
| | - Angela B Johnson
- Farm and Ranch Safety Coordinator, North Dakota State University Extension, Fargo, ND, USA
| | - Sheryl Sahr
- Trauma Services, Sanford Medical Center Fargo, Fargo, ND, USA
- Department of Surgery, University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Grand Forks, ND, USA
| | | | - Deb Syverson
- Trauma Services, Sanford Medical Center Fargo, Fargo, ND, USA
| | - Zachery Staskywicz
- Department of Surgery, University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Grand Forks, ND, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Sorensen JA, Milkovich PJ, Dorfman L, Mejia P, Perez-Sanz SB. ROPS commentary-Addressing our fatal blind spot: Applying evidence-based solutions to reduce the most frequent cause of death on U.S. farms. Am J Ind Med 2023. [PMID: 37088563 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.23484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/08/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023]
Abstract
Tractor overturns are the most prominent contributing factor to death on U.S. farms and have been for decades. While public health researchers hypothesized years ago that overturn fatalities would largely disappear as older tractors were replaced by newer ones, this has not happened. In the meantime, farmers continue to die in these easily preventable and tragic events. Not only are tractor rollover protective structures (ROPS) 99% effective in preventing death in the event of an overturn, a national program exists to connect farmers with ROPS. While this program has been popular with farmers, and the cost-effectiveness of providing farmers with technical support and cost-sharing rebates has been demonstrated, many states lack access to ROPS rebates, even those states with the highest number of overturn fatalities. Given the evidence, it is difficult to reconcile the lack of policy or public investment in a solution that decisively addresses the most pernicious contributor to death in the agricultural industry. In this commentary, we highlight the science behind this proven solution to tractor overturns and the essential role that the media and implementation science can play in encouraging policy-makers to save lives.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julie A Sorensen
- Northeast Center for Occupational Health and Safety, Cooperstown, New York, USA
| | - Pamela J Milkovich
- Northeast Center for Occupational Health and Safety, Cooperstown, New York, USA
| | - Lori Dorfman
- Berkeley Media Studies Group, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Pamela Mejia
- Berkeley Media Studies Group, Berkeley, California, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
6
|
Karunanayake CP, Koehncke N, Enebeli S, Ulmer K, Rennie DC. Trends in Work-Related Fatal Farm Injuries, Saskatchewan, Canada: 2005-2019. J Agromedicine 2022; 28:444-455. [PMID: 36218341 DOI: 10.1080/1059924x.2022.2134244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study was conducted to estimate farm fatality rates and to describe patterns of fatal agricultural injuries on Saskatchewan farms from 2005-2019. METHODS Data on work-related farm fatalities was collected from January 2005 to December 2019 in the Province of Saskatchewan as a part of the injury and mortality surveillance for the Canadian Agricultural Injury Reporting (CAIR) program. Data were abstracted from records made available by the Provincial Coroner's Office. RESULTS There were 166 farm work-related fatalities recorded between 2005 and 2019 in Saskatchewan. The majority (93.4%) of work-related fatalities were in males. The overall work-related fatality rate was 10.5 (95% CI: 8.9-12.1) per 100,000 farm population. The overall age-adjusted work-related fatality rate was 18.1 (95% CI: 15.2-20.9) per 100,000 farm population among males and 1.4 (95% CI: 0.6- 2.3) per 100,000 farm population among females. Age-adjusted rate decreased from 91.2 (95% CI: 69.4 - 117.66) per 100,000 farm population in 2005-2009 to 89.7 (95% CI: 64.9 - 120.2) per 100,000 farm population in 2015-2019 in males. Trend analysis of the work-related fatality rate in all cases showed a non-significant average annual decline of 2.6% (p=0.156). Rollover injuries contributed to a high proportion of fatalities in children (30.0%) and the elderly population (14.9%). The most common causative agent was a tractor, and the most common location of injury was the farmyard or field. CONCLUSION The burden of mortality in this industry is still substantial. There was a non-significant decreasing trend in the injury rate over the 15 years period. Elderly farmers continue to be at high risk for fatality while the rates for children have declined. Application of the hierarchy of control to this workplace could reduce the risk of fatal injury, and in particular the high proportion of rollover injuries in children and the elderly population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chandima P Karunanayake
- Canadian Centre for Health and Safety in Agriculture, University of Saskatchewan, 104 Clinic Place, Saskatoon, SK S7N 2Z4, Canada
| | - Niels Koehncke
- Canadian Centre for Health and Safety in Agriculture, University of Saskatchewan, 104 Clinic Place, Saskatoon, SK S7N 2Z4, Canada.,Department of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Royal University Hospital, 103 Hospital Drive, Saskatoon, SK S7N 0W8, Canada
| | - Stanley Enebeli
- Saskatchewan Health Authority, 701 Queen Street, Saskatoon, SK, S7K 0M7, Canada
| | - Kendra Ulmer
- Canadian Centre for Health and Safety in Agriculture, University of Saskatchewan, 104 Clinic Place, Saskatoon, SK S7N 2Z4, Canada
| | - Donna C Rennie
- College of Nursing, Agriculture, University of Saskatchewan, 104 Clinic Place, Saskatoon, SK S7N 2Z4, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Scott‐Harp D, Peek‐Asa C, Rohlman DS, Janssen B. More than time and money: A mixed-methods study of the barriers to safer cattle handling practices. Am J Ind Med 2019; 62:978-985. [PMID: 31452240 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.23043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2019] [Revised: 07/08/2019] [Accepted: 08/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cattle are responsible for more injuries and fatalities than any farm animal, and cattle-related nonfatal injuries are some of the costliest, requiring more time off work than other injuries. Though research has improved our understanding of cattle behavior, developed low-stress handling practices, and determined how facilities can be safer, injury rates remain high. This project identified the types of equipment commonly used on farms and assessed farmer perceptions of safety and barriers to implementing changes. METHODS A mixed-methods design was used for this study. The study was comprised of a survey (N = 66) and four site visits conducted at operations focusing on different types of beef production in Iowa, United States. Information collected included descriptive characteristics of the operator and operation, tasks carried out on the farm, handling facility components and design, and incidents of handling-related injuries. RESULTS Most farms indicated that they utilized equipment like alleyways, a manual headgate, a sorting/diverter gate, and a manual squeeze chute. Farmers cited the cost of equipment, lack of necessity (their setup worked well already), and lack of time as being the main reasons they have not implemented changes in their operations. However, qualitative responses provided additional details and nuance, illuminating farmers' anxieties related to farm transitions, knowledge, and trust of equipment sales personnel. CONCLUSION This study provides health and safety professionals with additional details about why beef cattle producers may choose not to invest in safer handling equipment, even when they recognize the safety benefits of doing so.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- DeAnn Scott‐Harp
- Department of Occupational and Environmental HealthThe University of Iowa Iowa City Iowa
| | - Corinne Peek‐Asa
- Department of Occupational and Environmental HealthThe University of Iowa Iowa City Iowa
| | - Diane S. Rohlman
- Department of Occupational and Environmental HealthThe University of Iowa Iowa City Iowa
| | - Brandi Janssen
- Department of Occupational and Environmental HealthThe University of Iowa Iowa City Iowa
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Forst LS. Tractor Rollovers Are Preventable. Am J Public Health 2018; 108:1436-1437. [PMID: 30303730 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2018.304716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Linda S Forst
- The author is with the School of Public Health-Environmental Health, University of Illinois at Chicago
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Myers M, Kelsey T, Tinc P, Sorensen J, Jenkins P. Rollover Protective Structures, Worker Safety, and Cost-Effectiveness: New York, 2011-2017. Am J Public Health 2018; 108:1517-1522. [PMID: 30252530 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2018.304644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To measure cost-effectiveness of an intervention to increase retrofitting of rollover protective structures (ROPS) on tractors. METHODS Tractor overturns are the leading cause of farm fatalities. ROPS prevent these deaths. This study updates a 2011 cost-effectiveness assessment of a New York State intervention to increase use of ROPS. We subtracted intervention cost from the cost of injuries averted, then divided this figure by the number of averted injuries. We used related probabilities and costs of fatalities and injuries from published literature to calculate the program's cost-effectiveness. RESULTS The total cost of the injuries averted from 2007 to 2017 was $6 018 742 versus a total program cost of $1 776 608. The one-time retrofit costs will continue to prevent injuries as long as the tractors are used, generating additional (projected) future savings of $12 136 512, $15 781 027, and $18 924 818 if retrofitted tractors remain in operation 15, 20, or 25 years after their retrofit. CONCLUSIONS Social marketing was cost-effective for reducing injuries from tractor overturns. Public Health Implications. These results indicate that the intervention model is effective from both a public health and economic standpoint and should be expanded into other states.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Melvin Myers
- Melvin Myers is with the Southeastern Coastal Center for Agricultural Safety and Health, University of Florida, Gainesville. Timothy Kelsey is with the Department of Agricultural Economics, Sociology and Education, Pennsylvania State College of Agricultural Sciences, University Park. Pam Tinc and Julie Sorensen are with the Northeast Center for Occupational Health and Safety: Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing, Bassett Healthcare Network, Cooperstown, NY. Paul Jenkins is with the Statistics and Computing Center at the Bassett Healthcare Network Research Institute, Cooperstown, NY
| | - Timothy Kelsey
- Melvin Myers is with the Southeastern Coastal Center for Agricultural Safety and Health, University of Florida, Gainesville. Timothy Kelsey is with the Department of Agricultural Economics, Sociology and Education, Pennsylvania State College of Agricultural Sciences, University Park. Pam Tinc and Julie Sorensen are with the Northeast Center for Occupational Health and Safety: Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing, Bassett Healthcare Network, Cooperstown, NY. Paul Jenkins is with the Statistics and Computing Center at the Bassett Healthcare Network Research Institute, Cooperstown, NY
| | - Pam Tinc
- Melvin Myers is with the Southeastern Coastal Center for Agricultural Safety and Health, University of Florida, Gainesville. Timothy Kelsey is with the Department of Agricultural Economics, Sociology and Education, Pennsylvania State College of Agricultural Sciences, University Park. Pam Tinc and Julie Sorensen are with the Northeast Center for Occupational Health and Safety: Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing, Bassett Healthcare Network, Cooperstown, NY. Paul Jenkins is with the Statistics and Computing Center at the Bassett Healthcare Network Research Institute, Cooperstown, NY
| | - Julie Sorensen
- Melvin Myers is with the Southeastern Coastal Center for Agricultural Safety and Health, University of Florida, Gainesville. Timothy Kelsey is with the Department of Agricultural Economics, Sociology and Education, Pennsylvania State College of Agricultural Sciences, University Park. Pam Tinc and Julie Sorensen are with the Northeast Center for Occupational Health and Safety: Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing, Bassett Healthcare Network, Cooperstown, NY. Paul Jenkins is with the Statistics and Computing Center at the Bassett Healthcare Network Research Institute, Cooperstown, NY
| | - Paul Jenkins
- Melvin Myers is with the Southeastern Coastal Center for Agricultural Safety and Health, University of Florida, Gainesville. Timothy Kelsey is with the Department of Agricultural Economics, Sociology and Education, Pennsylvania State College of Agricultural Sciences, University Park. Pam Tinc and Julie Sorensen are with the Northeast Center for Occupational Health and Safety: Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing, Bassett Healthcare Network, Cooperstown, NY. Paul Jenkins is with the Statistics and Computing Center at the Bassett Healthcare Network Research Institute, Cooperstown, NY
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Antunes SM, Cordeiro C, Teixeira HM. Analysis of fatal accidents with tractors in the Centre of Portugal: Ten years analysis. Forensic Sci Int 2018; 287:74-80. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2018.03.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2018] [Revised: 03/28/2018] [Accepted: 03/29/2018] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
|
11
|
Tinc PJ, Gadomski A, Sorensen JA, Weinehall L, Jenkins P, Lindvall K. Adapting the T0-T4 implementation science model to occupational health and safety in agriculture, forestry, and fishing: A scoping review. Am J Ind Med 2018; 61:51-62. [PMID: 29114898 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.22787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/29/2017] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite much research to develop life-saving innovations for the agriculture, forestry, and fishing workforce, these populations continue to face the highest fatal and non-fatal injury rates in the United States, as many of these solutions are not fully adopted. METHODS A scoping review was conducted to provide an overview of research to practice efforts in this field. The language used to describe these initiatives, the utility of the NIH T0-T4 model, and the progress along the research to practice continuum were examined. RESULTS Fourteen eligible references demonstrated that progress in implementation science is lacking and that there is little consistency in how researchers apply the T0-T4 model; thus, a new model is presented. CONCLUSIONS Researchers in this field face several challenges when moving from research to practice. While some challenges are addressed with the proposed model, additional resources and infrastructure to support such initiatives are necessary.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pamela J. Tinc
- Northeast Center for Occupational Health and Safety: Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing; Cooperstown New York
- Epidemiology and Global Health; Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine; Umeå University; Umeå Sweden
| | - Anne Gadomski
- Northeast Center for Occupational Health and Safety: Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing; Cooperstown New York
- Research Institute; Bassett Healthcare Network; Cooperstown New York
| | - Julie A. Sorensen
- Northeast Center for Occupational Health and Safety: Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing; Cooperstown New York
| | - Lars Weinehall
- Epidemiology and Global Health; Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine; Umeå University; Umeå Sweden
| | - Paul Jenkins
- Northeast Center for Occupational Health and Safety: Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing; Cooperstown New York
- Research Institute; Bassett Healthcare Network; Cooperstown New York
| | - Kristina Lindvall
- Epidemiology and Global Health; Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine; Umeå University; Umeå Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Monaghan N, Lower T, Rolfe M. Fatal Incidents in Australia’s Older Farmers (2001–2015). J Agromedicine 2017; 22:100-108. [DOI: 10.1080/1059924x.2017.1282907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Noeline Monaghan
- Australian Centre for Agricultural Health and Safety, University of Sydney, Moree, Australia
| | - Tony Lower
- Australian Centre for Agricultural Health and Safety, University of Sydney, Moree, Australia
| | - Margaret Rolfe
- University Centre for Rural Health North Coast, University of Sydney, Lismore, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Sorensen JA, Tinc PJ, Weil R, Droullard D. Symbolic Interactionism: A Framework for Understanding Risk-Taking Behaviors in Farm Communities. J Agromedicine 2016; 22:26-35. [DOI: 10.1080/1059924x.2016.1248306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Julie A. Sorensen
- New York Center for Agricultural Medicine and Health, Bassett Healthcare Network, Cooperstown, New York, USA
| | - Pamela J. Tinc
- New York Center for Agricultural Medicine and Health, Bassett Healthcare Network, Cooperstown, New York, USA
| | - Rebecca Weil
- New York Center for Agricultural Medicine and Health, Bassett Healthcare Network, Cooperstown, New York, USA
| | - David Droullard
- Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York, USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Chores at Times of Fatal or Serious Injuries Associated with Tractor Overturns with and without Rollover Protection. SAFETY 2016. [DOI: 10.3390/safety2030018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
|
15
|
Ramirez M, Bedford R, Wu H, Harland K, Cavanaugh JE, Peek-Asa C. Lighting and marking policies are associated with reduced farm equipment-related crash rates: a policy analysis of nine Midwestern US states. Occup Environ Med 2016; 73:621-6. [PMID: 27405602 PMCID: PMC5013097 DOI: 10.1136/oemed-2016-103672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2016] [Accepted: 06/14/2016] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effectiveness of roadway policies for lighting and marking of farm equipment in reducing crashes in Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin. METHODS In this ecological study, state policies on lighting and marking of farm equipment were scored for compliance with standards of the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers (ASABE). Using generalized estimating equations negative binomial models, we estimated the relationships between lighting and marking scores, and farm equipment crash rates, per 100 000 farm operations. RESULTS A total of 7083 crashes involving farm equipment was reported from 2005 to 2010 in the Upper Midwest and Great Plains. As the state lighting and marking score increased by 5 units, crash rates reduced by 17% (rate ratio=0.83; 95% CI 0.78 to 0.88). Lighting-only (rate ratio=0.48; 95% CI 0.45 to 0.51) and marking-only policies (rate ratio=0.89; 95% CI 0.83 to 0.96) were each associated with reduced crash rates. CONCLUSIONS Aligning lighting and marking policies with ASABE standards may effectively reduce crash rates involving farm equipment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marizen Ramirez
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, College of Public Health, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Ronald Bedford
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, College of Public Health, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Hongqian Wu
- Department of Biostatistics, College of Public Health, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Karisa Harland
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Carver College of Medicine, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Joseph E Cavanaugh
- Department of Biostatistics, College of Public Health, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Corinne Peek-Asa
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, College of Public Health, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Tinc PJ, Ayers P, May JJ, Purschwitz MA, Park S, Bayes B, Sorensen J. Implementing a National Tractor Safety Program: Using “Whole System in a Room” to Mobilize Partners and Implement Solutions. J Agromedicine 2016; 21:127-31. [DOI: 10.1080/1059924x.2016.1142916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
|
17
|
Missikpode C, Peek-Asa C, Young T, Swanton A, Leinenkugel K, Torner J. Trends in non-fatal agricultural injuries requiring trauma care. Inj Epidemiol 2015; 2:30. [PMID: 26693134 PMCID: PMC4669366 DOI: 10.1186/s40621-015-0062-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2015] [Accepted: 11/12/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Efforts to control agricultural injuries have been underway for years. Yet, very little is known about their trends over time. We examined trends in non-fatal agricultural injuries through analyzing injuries reported in a state trauma registry. Methods Using Iowa Trauma Registry data collected by the Iowa Department of Public Health, we examined trends in non-fatal agricultural injuries reported by acute care hospitals accredited as Level I, II, and III Trauma Care Facilities from 2005 to 2013. Rate ratios and corresponding 95 % confidence intervals were used to examine the burden of non-fatal agricultural injuries across this period. Negative binomial regression was used to calculate the average annual change in agricultural injury rates over time. Joinpoint regression analysis was used to examine the average annual change in the number of injuries over time. Results Between 2005 and 2013, a total of 1238 agricultural injuries were reported to the trauma registry by Level I, II and III trauma facilities. From 2005 to 2013, the rate of agricultural injuries per 100,000 hired workers, ranchers, and farm operators increased by 11 % for every unit increase in year and had nearly tripled over this time period. From 2005 to 2008 there was a significant annual increase of 31.74 % in the number of agricultural injuries whereas from 2008 to 2013 there was a non-significant annual increase of 3.70 %. The number of moderate and severe/critical injuries increased steadily and significantly over the study period, with annual percent increases of 13 and 20 %, respectively. Conclusion Non-fatal agricultural injuries are rising, although the documented increases could be influenced in some part by treatment patterns in the trauma system, reporting bias or increases in farm work exposure. However, these issues do not likely account for all of the increase found, and this calls for an increase in priority of agricultural safety programs. Since the majority of research involves fatal injuries, information about non-fatal injuries may help inform new intervention approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Celestin Missikpode
- Injury Prevention Research Center, University of Iowa, 2190 WL, Iowa City, IA 52242 USA ; Department of Epidemiology, College of Public Health, University of Iowa, 145 N. Riverside Drive, Iowa City, IA 52242 USA
| | - Corinne Peek-Asa
- Injury Prevention Research Center, University of Iowa, 2190 WL, Iowa City, IA 52242 USA ; Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, College of Public Health, University of Iowa, 145 N. Riverside Drive, 100 CPHB, S143, Iowa City, IA 52242 USA
| | - Tracy Young
- Injury Prevention Research Center, University of Iowa, 2190 WL, Iowa City, IA 52242 USA
| | - Amanda Swanton
- Injury Prevention Research Center, University of Iowa, 2190 WL, Iowa City, IA 52242 USA
| | - Kathy Leinenkugel
- Iowa Department of Public Health, 321 E. 12th Street, Des Moines, IA 50319 USA
| | - James Torner
- Department of Epidemiology, College of Public Health, University of Iowa, 145 N. Riverside Drive, Iowa City, IA 52242 USA
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Liu B, Koc AB. Field Tests of a Tractor Rollover Detection and Emergency Notification System. J Agric Saf Health 2015. [PMID: 26204787 DOI: 10.13031/jash.21.10812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this research was to assess the feasibility of a rollover detection and emergency notification system for farm tractors using field tests. The emergency notification system was developed based on a tractor stability model and implemented on a mobile electronic device with the iOS operating system. A complementary filter was implemented to combine the data from the accelerometer and gyroscope sensors to improve their accuracies in calculating the roll and pitch angles and the roll and pitch rates. The system estimates a stability index value during tractor operation, displays feedback messages when the stability index is lower than a preset threshold value, and transmits emergency notification messages when an overturn happens. Ten tractor rollover tests were conducted on a field track. The developed system successfully monitored the stability of the tractor during all of the tests. The iOS application was able to detect rollover accidents and transmit emergency notifications in the form of a phone call and email when an accident was detected. The system can be a useful tool for training and education in safe tractor operation. The system also has potential for stability monitoring and emergency notification of other on-road and off-road motorized vehicles.
Collapse
|
19
|
|
20
|
|
21
|
Biddle EA, Keane PR. Action Learning: a new method to increase tractor rollover protective structure (ROPS) adoption. J Agromedicine 2012; 17:398-409. [PMID: 22994641 DOI: 10.1080/1059924x.2012.713842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Action Learning is a problem-solving process that is used in various industries to address difficult problems. This project applied Action Learning to a leading problem in agricultural safety. Tractor overturns are the leading cause of fatal injury to farmworkers. This cause of injury is preventable using rollover protective structures (ROPS), protective equipment that functions as a roll bar structure to protect the operator in the event of an overturn. For agricultural tractors manufactured after 1976 and employee operated, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulation requires employers to equip them with ROPS and seat belts. By the mid-1980s, US tractor manufacturers began adding ROPS on all farm tractors over 20 horsepower sold in the United States (http://www.nasdonline.org/document/113/d001656/rollover-protection-for-farm-tractor-operators.html). However, many older tractors remain in use without ROPS, putting tractor operators at continued risk for traumatic injury and fatality. For many older tractor models ROPS are available for retrofit, but for a variety of reasons, tractor owners have not chosen to retrofit those ROPS. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) attempted various means to ameliorate this occupational safety risk, including the manufacture of a low-cost ROPS for self-assembly. Other approaches address barriers to adoption. An Action Learning approach to increasing adoption of ROPS was followed in Virginia and New York, with mixed results. Virginia took action to increase the manufacturing and adoption of ROPS, but New York saw problems that would be insurmountable. Increased focus on team composition might be needed to establish effective Action Learning teams to address this problem.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elyce Anne Biddle
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Morgantown, West Virginia 26501, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|