The Rural Voice, 1999-03, Page 20Tarin Safety "Week®
March 10 - 17
...and all year long
•
Older Farmers and Farm Safety
Canadian farmers in their sixties are twice as likely to die in a farm accident as farmers in their
tidies. As we pass age 70. the chances of death in the farm workplace skyrocket to five times the
average for a 40 -year-old. Tractor rollovers are the number onecause of accidental deaths among
older farmers. Roughly two-thirds of the fatalities involve tractor and/or farm machinery.
Why is this happening?
Phssical abilities peak in our late twenties. Somewhere between 55 and 70, the typical
indiv idual's eyesight. hearing and strength deteriorate. Respiration ability and cardiovascular
function commonly decline with increasing age. Fatigue is a major factor in many farm
accidents. An older worker may tire more quickly. Reaction time increases as we age. Chronic
illness may make it impossible to handle what you used to consider to be a normal workday.
Check with your pharmacist 10 determine the impact of medications on reaction time. Sometimes
drugs can hamper reflexes and diminish alertness.
Dealing with aging safely
One of the most important things to do is accept getting older. Denial puts an individual at much
greater risk of accidental injury or death. Remember you are not alone. To help-prevcni
accidents:
I. Have regular medical check-ups. Vision and hearing should he accessed.
2. Try to avoid operating equipment on the roadway during times of poor visibility.
3. Don't allow fatigue to put you at risk of having an accident. Take frequent breaks during the day.
4. Drink plenty of liquids. and keep them available in the work area. Dehydration contributes to fatigue and makes us less alert.
5. Be extra cautious when operating equipment. Chances are that your reaction times are slower than they once were. Read
owner's manuals for new equipment.
6. Make sure that someone knows where you will he working. and approximately when you plan to return.
7. Above all. know your limitations. Don't push your mind and body past their sate and
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healthy limits. Don't let anyone else cajole you into doing something you don't feel
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The up side of getting older
Motivation. judgement and skill usually continue to increase beyond age 30.
Improvement in these faculties can help offset the decreases in reaction time and muscle
strength that occur later in life. Older farmers have the wisdom and experience that
many younger folks lack. Use your enhanced judgment and skills to compensate for the
decreases in reaction and muscle strength.
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•
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dalk District Credit Union Limited
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Shelburne, Ontario
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6 THE RURAL VOICE
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•
Take the time
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EST 1.1)
MUTUAL INSURANCE COMPANY
Wroxeter, Ontario