What are the risks

Farms are amongst the most dangerous workplaces in Victoria. The work is heavy and awkward, and it can involve working alone as well as long hours. There is a high risk of death, injury or illness to workers and others on the property such as visitors and children.

The risks faced by farmers and farm workers are many and varied.  Tractors and their attachments (particularly power-driven attachments) cause most of the deaths and severe injuries, however unguarded augers, farm machinery, all-terrain vehicles and unpredictable animal behavior have also caused severe injuries.

The vast majority of injuries are less serious - typically musculo-skeletal injuries resulting from forceful or repetitive lifting, carrying, pushing and pulling.

Other dangers faced by farmers and farm workers include falls, slips and trips, lacerations, contact with electricity, depression, fatigue, sun exposure, noise, working in confined spaces and illnesses associated with chemical use.