Environmental Safety

Farm work brings a whole array of environmental hazards that vary by geographic region and season of the year. It is important to know how to identify and respond to potential environmental hazards. Here are some basic tips:

• Weather — Stay informed and prepare for the weather forecast in your area daily. If lightning is in the area, avoid open fields, move to safe shelter and, when in the cab of a vehicle, avoid contact with metal parts.
• Insects, Bugs and Poisonous Plants — Know how to recognize the dangerous plants and insects common in your region. Wear long sleeves, pants, boots, and gloves when you know there is a risk. Avoid burning brush that may contain poison ivy, poison oak, or poison sumac—inhaling the smoke can cause severe respiratory problems. Spiders like quiet, dark places so be cautious around wood piles and tall grass. Clothing, shoes, or towels stored where spiders, insects, or even small animals have easy access should be shaken out before use.
• Animals — Farmworkers involved in caring for and managing animals should receive training on hazard awareness, identification, and response specific to the animals with which they work. Wild or stray animals require great caution — consider calling local authorities or organizations that specialize in handling these situations.