Fall-related occupational injuries on farms

Abstract

We assessed risk factors for fall‐related farm injuries in a population‐based, case‐control study. Cases had to reside in a defined geographic region served by a single medical center. Multiple sources reported cases, and a special farm census enabled random selection of controls. The annual risk of farm fall injury was 7.5 (95% CI: 5.7, 10.0) per 1,000 person‐years. The crude incidence rate was higher in men, while the rate based on hours of farmwork was higher in women. In a multivariate analysis of risk factors, three factors were significantly associated with the risk. The risk of fall injury increased 2% (95% CI: 1%, 4%) per hour worked. Residents of farms with some farm workers not living on the farm had a fall injury rate 2.5 (95% CI: 1.0, 6.2) times greater than residents of other farms. Residents of farms with registered cows had one‐third (95% CI: 0.14, 0.93) the risk of residents of other farms. To identify environmental hazards for fall injuries, researchers from several disciplines may need to collaborate in the design and conduct of studies that include injury site investigations. © 1996 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.

Fall-Related Injuries Among Agricultural Household Members: Regional Rural Injury Study II (RRIS-II)

“…From other studies, 3,16 increased risks of agricultural injury have also been identified for those who worked more compared with fewer hours.…”

“…Information that would be useful to investigate in future studies includes variables such as weather conditions (rain, snow), housekeeping habits (surface debris, tripping hazards), type of footwear worn, history of falls, balance and gait, and the use of fall protection devices. 3,[23][24][25] Within the current design, this level of detail was not possible for every source/vehicle of injury.…”

“…A major limitation in agricultural injury research has been the lack of specific fall-related questions. 3 The purpose of the current study was to identify the magnitude and consequences of all types of fall-related injuries among agricultural household members in a five-state region and to identify potential risk factors.…”

◾ Ergonomic Analysis and Abatement Recommendations to Reduce Musculoskeletal Stress in Warehousing Operations: Case Study

“…Another major cause of injuries is falls. Nordstrom et al (1996) reported annual rates of approximately 7.5 falls per 1000 person-years. According to their study (1996), the rate of fall-related injuries is higher for males (2.4 times that for females) and with longer work hours (an increase of 2% for each extra hour worked).…”

Pediatric Fall Injuries in Agricultural Settings: A New Look at a Common Injury Control Problem

“…[1][2][3][4] In most pediatric settings, fall injuries are generally experienced while children are walking, running, or engaged in recreational activities. Falls from heights are also common and typically involve children falling from stairs, beds, and playground equipment.…”