Farm Risks Remain High

(NRCS photo by Brandon O'Connor)

As fall harvest kicks into high gear, Purdue University’s Agricultural Safety and Health Program is reminding Hoosiers of the dangers associated with farming. In its annual Indiana Farm Fatality Summary, the organization notes 25 people died in work-related, on-farm incidents in Indiana last year.

Purdue says most of the deaths were involving tractors and/or off-road vehicles. According to the annual summary, nearly half of all deaths associated with farming over the past five years involved people aged 60 or older.

“Historically, farmers over the age of 60, including many who work only part time, have accounted for a disproportionate number of farm-related injuries. Recent spikes in frequencies of fatalities over the past 10 years makes this population of older farmers a special concern,” the report states

Purdue says farm fatalities for the past 50 years continue to trend lower, likely reflecting safer machinery and work practices while also corresponding with a decline in the number of farmers.

Read the Indiana Farm Fatality Summary by clicking here.