Minnesota is one of the leading states in terms of revenue produced from agriculture. Many of us don’t think too much about the production of the things that we eat, thus, it is easy not to think too much about farming accidents. Nevertheless, working in agriculture can be a dangerous business.
Many agricultural workers suffer work-related injuries each year, with some being minor and many having life-altering effects. Having a better understanding of some of the most common accidents associated with agriculture could assist with accident prevention.
Overturning tractors
Operating heavy machinery such as tractors requires a lot of skill. It can also be an extremely dangerous undertaking at times. In fact, research suggests that up to 44% of all farming accidents involve overturning tractors.
Exposure to toxic chemicals
There are many chemicals and pesticides involved in the process of harvesting crops. A lot of these are harmful if humans are overly exposed to them. Sometimes, symptoms may not appear instantly, but the more common symptoms associated with chemical exposure include skin rashes, nausea as well as breathing difficulties.
Falls from heights
The daily tasks of agricultural workers frequently include working from a height. Farm buildings such as silos, stables, and barns may require repair work and maintenance to be carried out. This exposes employees to a risk of falling from a height. Crucially, farmworkers do not necessarily need to be at a great height for a fall to result in catastrophic injury.
Farmworkers play an essential role in all of our lives, by producing much of the food we eat. Therefore, it is important that the rights of agricultural workers are protected. If you have been injured in a work-related accident in Minnesota, there may be legal options available to you.