What are the types of injuries that agricultural workers are particularly vulnerable to?

The largest industry in California is the agricultural industry. Most of the produce that people in every state enjoy every day comes from farms in California. Agricultural work is vital to keeping our nation fed and nourished, but the work itself can be quite taxing. It is hard on the body and comes with the risk of many different types of injuries. 

Below is a list of the most common injuries that agricultural workers suffer. If you or a loved one works in agriculture, review this list to understand your risks. If you know which injuries are most common, you may have a better chance of avoiding them.

Injuries that are commonly suffered by agricultural workers:

• Injuries caused by overturning tractors or other heavy machinery. Agricultural work requires the use of a lot of heavy machinery. When these machines tip or run out of control, it can lead to significant injury for workers. 
• Toxic chemical exposure from pesticides. To grow hearty produce in large quantities, most farms rely on pesticides and other chemicals. That means that farmworkers are exposed to many harsh and harmful chemicals that can lead to long term damage. 
• Heat stress, stroke, or exhaustion. California is a hot, arid state. A lot of agricultural work takes place outside under the hot sun. Without proper hydration and breaks, it is easy to suffer from heat-related illnesses. 
• Falls. Falling off equipment, from lofts in barns, or on slippery surfaces can lead to significant injury. Take care in the workplace to avoid falling and sustaining an injury that way.
• Limbs crushed by machinery. Farming requires a lot of machinery that requires human intervention to run correctly. Injuries to digits and limbs are very common on farms. 
• Animal-related injuries. Not every agricultural job requires interaction with animals, but those animals add an extra layer of injury risk when it does.

If you are injured as an agricultural worker, it is vital to have an experienced attorney on your side working in your best interest. Contact the attorneys at Para Los Trabajadores. We are here for help and representation, and we understand the unique elements of the agricultural industry. Call today.