A crush injury may occur in any workplace but farms are a particularly high risk for this type of injury. A crush injury is when a body part is trapped, jammed or squashed between objects. Depending on the degree of force involved, muscles, skin, bones and nerves may be damaged and there’s a high possibility that a claim on your Connecticut workers compensation insurance would result if a crush injury occurs in your business.
Common causes of crush injuries on farms:
• Vehicle roll-overs – Tractors and All Terrain Vehicles may falter on steep hills, roll over and pin the driver beneath them.
• Machinery – Fingers, hands and arms may be caught and pulled into the equipment.
• Livestock – Large animals, cattle or horses, may crush a farmer against gates or solid fences.
Unfortunately the list of possible crush injuries on a farm is extensive. The best ways to minimize the risk are to ensure employees are aware of the risks and follow safety guidelines; and to draw up a comprehensive emergency plan and ensure all farm workers know the contents. This might include:
• Placing well stocked first aid kits in various places around the farm.
• Having at least one fully trained first aider on the farm at all times.
• Plan the quickest and easiest routes to specific emergency services.
• Ensuring that everyone knows what to do in an emergency situation, especially visitors.
Of course, these are just a few of the safety practices you may need to apply on your farm. Any plan designed to keep workers safe is a good plan and may reduce crush related injuries and workers compensation claims.