Agricultural injury

Background Agriculture is one of the most hazardous industries in the US. Methods We reviewed MEDLINE and NIOSHTIC to identify English-language studi es addressing occupational injury among agricultural populations, focusing on North America. Additional references were identified from the reference lists of identified studies and from contacts with experts in the field. Results U.S. data indicate up to approximately 780 deaths and 140,000 cases of nonfatal disabling injuries in 1998. Risk of agricultural injuries is a pproximately 5-10/100 persons per year but is higher in certain risk groups , such as males and cattle workers. Falls, machinery, and animals are among the most common causes. Unique features of, the agricultural workplace and exposed population combine to increase risk and hinder accurate measuremen t. These features include a wide range of activities, hazards, and disperse d work places in agriculture; a seasonal hired work force that often has br ief tenure, poor English skills, and a distrust of officialdom; and a histo ry of exemption regarding occupational health and safety regulations. Conclusions Research in agricultural injury should include epidemiologic st udy of risk factors and evaluation of interventions. Although only limited data are available documenting efficacy of specific preventive approaches, prevention should focus on engineering controls, regulatory approaches, and education. (C) 2000 Wiley-Liss, Inc.