Citation

Monaghan N, Lower T, Rolfe MI. J. Agromed. 2017; 22(2): 100-108.

Affiliation

University Centre for Rural Health North Coast, University of Sydney ; Lismore , AUSTRALIA.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2017, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/1059924X.2017.1282907

PMID

28095210

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: This study assesses non-intentional injury deaths of older farmers and the causal agents associated with these fatalities in Australia (2001-2015). It also explores approaches based on the hierarchy of risk controls to reduce fatalities and injuries in this cohort Methods: Data on farm-related incidents were sourced from the National Coroners Information System (NCIS) for the study period and coded. Rates were calculated and regression analyses completed to assess trends over time.

RESULTS: Those in the 50+ years category (n=610), accounted for 49.8% of all on-farm non-intentional injury deaths, with males (n=566) dominating the cases. The annual mean was 40.66 cases (sd 8.08) and the average rate 36/100,000. Trend analysis revealed a non-statistically significant (p<0.05) increase in cases over the period. Farm vehicles and machinery were responsible for almost two thirds of the fatal cases.

CONCLUSION: Non-intentional fatality rates for older farmers have remained relatively unchanged for a significant period in Australia. There is a need to examine additional approaches that not only maintain the benefits of work activity for older farmers, but also balance this against a safety perspective.

Language: en

Keywords

Aging; farm; injury; older; safety