This week is the 80th observation of Farm Safety and Health week

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — The Governor proclaimed the week of September 15th to be Farm Safety and Health Week, with the theme of "Don't Learn Safety by Accident."

This is the 80th year the week is observed nationwide. And according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the agriculture sector is the most dangerous in the country. The department reports there are more than 500 deaths from roadway crashes to tractor rollovers, and confined space accidents each year.

“The fall harvest in Illinois is one of the most beautiful times of year, but with it comes the need for increased awareness when you are on the roads,” said IDOT Secretary Omer Osman. “Now and throughout the year, stay alert for slow-moving equipment in rural areas and be prepared to slow down. Watch for reduced sight lines because of tall corn and proceed cautiously. By staying patient and sharing the road, we can keep Illinois the No. 1 state for agriculture and the safest as well.”

Most of the tractor-related deaths happen because of side and rear overturns, resulting in a rollover. 80% of these deaths happen to experienced farmers. Officials say there are rollover protection devices like roll bars to prevent injury or death.

Officials say grain handling is another high-hazard occupation. Reminding farmers to not enter grain bins if possible. If a farmer needs to enter one, they should never work alone in a confined space. They add to always wear appropriate equipment. Adding working in pairs can help prevent accidents like a recent one,

“A recent grain bin incident in Lee County highlights the importance of working safely on the farm,” said IDOL Occupational Safety and Health Chief Erik Kambarian. “Fortunately, due to the safe and effective efforts of the Sublette Fire Department, and their mutual aid partners, this incident resulted in a rescue rather than a recovery.”

The Illinois Department of Agriculture, the Illlinois Department of Transportation, and the Illinois Department of Labor are leading the campaign with encouragement and addressing topics of concern on social media.

There is a new topic each day:

Monday, Sept. 16: Equipment and Rural Roadway Safety
Tuesday, Sept. 17: Health and Wellness
Wednesday, Sept 18: Generations of Farming
Thursday, Sept. 19: Confined Spaces
Friday, Sept. 20: Reporting Ag Injuries

The IDOA Director, Jerry Costello says, “Agriculture is our state’s leading industry, and unfortunately, it’s also the riskiest," adding, "We want to bring awareness to the risks as well as the ways to ensure farmers’ safety during harvest and throughout the year.”

To report a workplace injury or unsafe working conditions, visit osha.illinois.gov or call the Illinois OSHA Reporting Hotline at (217) 782-7860.

For more information about Farm Safety and Health Week, visit the IDOA website or follow IDOA on Facebook.