OSU Ag Safety & Health

Big snow events lead to increase reports of heart attacks.

If you experience signs of over-exertion, stop shoveling the snow and take a rest. If these symptoms last longer than 5 minutes after you have stopped, you may need to seek medical attention.

Feeling lightheaded or dizzy
Palpitations or a racing heartbeat
Chest pressure or pain
Shortness of breath
Nausea or heartburn
Excessive sweating

Read more information about how cold weather puts more strain on your heart at: https://agsafety.osu.edu/newsletter/ag-safety-stat

Working in Cold Temperatures?
Many ag workers are at risk when the temps dip into single digits. Actually more deaths in the U.S. are attributed to cold weather exposure (hypothermia) than hot weather exposure (hyperthermia).
Here are seven important strategies for working in cold weather:
1. Let others know where you will be working and when you will return.
2. Dress in layers so clothing may be added or removed.
3. Stay dry. Keep extra dry clothes, gloves, and shoes/boots nearby.
4. Protect your ears, face, hands, feet, and head. Extremities away from the body core have less blood flow and are more difficult to keep warm.
5. Take breaks in warm locations.
6. Stay hydrated. It's as important to drink water during cold weather as much as in hot conditions.
7. Plan some tasks during better conditions - for example, some routine maintenance jobs can wait till better weather.

For more information, continue reading at: https://agsafety.osu.edu/newsletter/ag-safety-stat

On this World Day of Giving, we pause to show our gratitude to all hard-working farmers and the seeds they plant for us. One of our AgrAbility farmers spoke about the impact Ohio AgrAbility made to his farm operation. Hear his story on this video: https://www.osu.edu/.../workforce.../for-ohioans-agrability

If you’d like to support Ohio AgrAbility or the Agricultural Safety program, consider giving to the OSU development fund, where funding continues to support our efforts to serve farmers. There is a “Give Today” Banner on the top of our webpages:
https://agrability.osu.edu
https://agsafety.osu.edu

Tractor safety training for young operators is an important workforce course for farm kids. In Ohio, approximately 300 students receive tractor and machinery certification. For more information about the training, contact our program at [email protected].

Harvest season in Ohio is off and running. Safety at the bin starts with a plan and commitment from all workers to respect the hazards.

Nearly all farm jobs require physical strength. During the “Generations of Farming” themed day of National Safety & Health Week, we think of the aging population as well as the Ohio AgrAbility program - especially as a focus on preventing secondary injuries. When there are physical limitations to the body, from aging or disability, workers can benefit from assistive technology tools to safely do their jobs.

ATV safety is important for people of all ages. The 4-H Safety project book makes a great training resource for riding safely. The link for the book is at:

ATV Safety Purchase ATV Safety from the Ohio State University Extension Publications store

Roadway safety is a 2-way street! See tips for tractor operators and motorists for sharing the roads safely this harvest season.

Interested in getting involved with the volunteer fire service. Come visit our Ohio Fire Academy at the Farm Science Review to learn about our new Volunteer Firefighter Recruitment Portal and how you can start serving your community! https://sfmengage.com.ohio.gov/volunteer-firefighter-recruitment-portal/

Dr. Dee Jepsen shares exciting insights on Women’s Leadership in Agricultural Safety & Health! 🚜 The 3E Model emphasizes engineering, education, and enforcement as pivotal for safety. Expanding this to agriculture is crucial for effective injury prevention & innovation. Let's empower women in these roles to drive change! What are your thoughts on enhancing women's leadership in this field? https://doi.org/10.1080/1059924X.2025.2435258

It’s the last day to join us in Lancaster for a good show: with tractors, food and farm safety!

See the Ohio Grain C.A.R.T. during the Tractor and Truck Show | Fairfield County 4-H See the Ohio Grain C.A.R.T. during the Tractor and Truck Show August 6, 2025 at 11:51am by Smith Visit the Grain C.A.R.T. during the Tractor Show! Families – and especially youth – are invited to come see the Ohio Grain C.A.R.T. (Comprehensive Agricultural Rescue Trailer) during the 30th annual ...