Posted on 03/11/2009, 10:01 am, by mySteinbach

Using protective equipment is the best way to minimize the potential for farm-related injuries and fatalities, Manitobans are being reminded during Agriculture Safety and Health Week 2009 which runs until March 17, Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives (MAFRI) Minister Rosann Wowchuk.
 
“Agriculture can be a dangerous field to work in as there is constant exposure to potentially dangerous machinery, chemicals or unpredictable livestock,” said Wowchuk.  “That is why all workers need to ensure they have and use the proper personal safety equipment at all times.”
 
The MAFRI minister, Immigration and Labour Minister Nancy Allan and Healthy Living Minister Kerri Irvin-Ross joined in voicing their support for the 2009 Canadian Agricultural Safety campaign theme of ‘PPE (personal protective equipment) only works if you use it.’
 
“Worker safety needs to be a high priority at every job site, including farms, and access to proper personal safety equipment is essential in reducing the risk of injuries,” said Allan. “While the equipment does not eliminate the hazard or guarantee permanent or total protection, it does reduce the potential for injury that could have long-term consequences for workers and their families.”
 
“Using proper protective equipment on the job demonstrates a commitment to personal safety,” said Irvin-Ross. “Eliminating all potential hazards is not always possible.  However, using personal safety equipment can have a positive impact on reducing the number of workplace accidents.”
 
Planning for personal safety at a workplace begins with a survey of potential hazards. If hazards can not otherwise be controlled, then safety equipment is required to reduce the risk of injury. The next step includes choosing the correct personal safety equipment. The equipment must fit each individual properly and be manufactured to accredited safety specifications.  All workers must be trained to use and take care of the safety equipment.  Regular maintenance or replacement of safety equipment is essential to an ongoing workplace safety strategy, the ministers said.
 
“It only takes a short time to assess a situation and use appropriate safety gear. In the end, it could be the difference between life or death,” said Wowchuk.
 
More information on the national 2009 Agricultural Safety campaign is available online.