Rural Hazards

The cause and incidence of injury in the rural sector is as diverse as the industries and the geography that businesses and communities work and live within. Injury rates are disproportionately high when contrasted to metropolitan areas.

Health outcomes arising from emergencies related to injuries and other health issues are compounded by the severity of injuries, proximity to health care services and shortages of trained healthcare professionals who work in rural and remote areas.

Rural injuries often dramatically effect the lives of families and can have the added adverse effect on the sustainability of agri-business with associated ongoing financial and emotional costs.

Typical hazards within the rural sector that cause both accidents and fatalities can be found on almost every farm. Tractors, Power Take offs, All Terrain Vehicles (ATVs or Quad Bikes), Chemicals, Silo’s, Overhead Power Lines, Livestock and a diverse range of machinery all hold a potential for injury.

Care should be taken at all times to ensure that:

• Machinery is maintained with repairs effected in a timely manner.
• Protective equipment is worn or utilised as prescribed.
• The right tools are used for the right job.
• Children are kept clear of hazards and made aware of possible injuries.