Governor Pritzker Declares Farm Safety and Health Week in Illinois

Governor JB Pritzker has officially declared September 15-21 as Farm Safety and Health Week in Illinois, emphasizing the critical theme of “Don’t Learn Safety by Accident.”

A Statewide Focus on Agricultural Safety

This year’s observance marks the 80th anniversary of the nationwide event, highlighting the importance of safety in agriculture, the state’s leading yet most hazardous industry.

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In recognition of Farm Safety and Health Week, the Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) has teamed up with the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) and the Illinois Department of Labor (IDOL) to promote essential safety practices.

Throughout the week, IDOA will leverage social media to address key safety topics, including Equipment and Rural Roadway Safety, Health and Wellness, Generations of Farming, Confined Spaces, and Reporting Ag Injuries.

Agriculture is our state’s leading industry, and unfortunately, it’s also the riskiest. We aim to raise awareness about the risks and highlight ways to ensure farmers’ safety during the harvest and throughout the year. -IDOA Director Jerry Costello II

Addressing High-Risk Agriculture

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics identifies agriculture as the most dangerous sector in America, with over 500 fatalities annually.

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Major risks include roadway crashes, tractor rollovers, and confined space accidents. To mitigate these dangers, farmers are reminded to use Slow Moving Vehicle triangles and ensure proper lighting on farm equipment.

Stay alert for slow-moving equipment in rural areas and be prepared to slow down. Watch for reduced sightlines because of tall corn and proceed cautiously. -IDOT Secretary Omer Osman

Tractor rollovers remain a significant concern, with side and rear overturns being prevalent.

Implementing rollover protection devices and seatbelts can significantly reduce fatalities. Additionally, grain handling poses high risks. Farmers are advised to avoid entering grain bins alone and to use appropriate safety equipment.

IDOL Occupational Safety and Health Chief Erik Kambarian highlighted a recent incident in Lee County, stating, “This event underscores the importance of safe practices. Thanks to the swift action of the Sublette Fire Department, what could have been a tragedy turned into a successful rescue.”