Nobody wants to get the phone call that there was a farm accident. We assume the worst as farming is one of the most dangerous occupations.
This week, the agriculture community is celebrating National Farm Safety and Health Week to remind farmers that they can prevent accidents and injuries during the busy harvest season.
Angela Bunker, a loss control specialist with American Family Insurance, says no matter the severity of a farm accident, financial burdens add up. As a loss control specialist, Bunker serves as the eyes and ears for underwriters as she makes farm visits across the state. She also leads safety courses for farm employees.
She says the cost of a farm accident can grow up to 10 times higher than the initial damage because of “soft costs.”
“Let’s say it was a $1,000 loss. On average, it’s not just that main loss where that dollar amount comes in,” she says. “What we find is the soft cost — everything that that farmer or rancher has to do… find a replacement employee… borrow equipment… meet with an attorney… actually costs the farmer $7,000 to $10,000 in soft costs.”
Bunker says farm losses also have the potential to raise your insurance prices. The easiest way to stop this is to not have a farm loss at all. She lays out easy safety measures anyone can take to prevent an expensive accident:
- Training and preparation are key. Review safety protocols and procedures with employees and family members.
- Wear your seatbelts whether it is operating mobile equipment like a skid steer, operating a tractor or driving a truck or semi. Seat belts save lives. According to studies, 8 out of 10 individuals involved in an accident that are wearing their seat belt will survive.
- Have everyone get proper rest. Tired employees and team members lead to injuries. Make sure you are keeping track of yourself and team members and allowing breaks when needed.
- Give the task of driving your full attention. Put down the cell phones and look up.
- Inspect vehicles and mobile equipment before operating. Check that safety lights are working and machinery has fire extinguishers. Do not operate faulty equipment. Maintenance is key to a successful fall harvest season.