Without a doubt, farming is a fast-rising industry in Canada, and Alberta is no exception. Whether it is a small family farm or a large commercial land operation, daily operations present unique exposures that come with liabilities and other risks.
With heavy machinery, large livestock, and unpredictable weather conditions, farm environments can quickly become dangerous if precautions aren’t implemented. The consequences of accidents can also be severe, leading to personal injury, equipment damage, and lost productivity, thus limiting your livelihood.
In this blog, we will discuss the five major risks to farm safety that Alberta farmers should be aware of, prevention tips to help you protect your farm and your livestock, and the importance of choosing farm insurance in Alberta as a safety strategy.
Alberta’s Government Stance on Farm Safety
Before discussing risks and prevention, it is important to know the direction the Alberta Government has taken on farm safety. The Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation, along with Occupation Health and Safety (OHS) regulations, mandate safety protocols to reduce farm accidents and injuries in agricultural settings.
Under the Employment Standards: Farm and Ranch regulations, Alberta farms are required to be in compliance with OHS standards, which entail policies that cover the safe handling of machines and proper training of farmworkers.
Alberta’s government also promotes farm education and awareness through agricultural initiatives, such as the Farm Safety Program, designed to offer resources and training to help farmers identify and prevent risks.
The Government of Alberta prioritizes farmers’ well-being, including their safety and productivity, hence the reason why these regulations and initiatives are put in place. Next, we will highlight and explain five major risks to farm safety, as well as the causes and prevention steps.
1. Machinery accidents
Farming equipment like tractors and balers play a vital role in agricultural operations, but it also presents serious safety risks if not properly maintained. Equipment failures, improper use, and lack of routine safety checks can lead to dangerous accidents such as rollovers or other mishaps.
Common problems include inadequate operator training, lack of safety guards during equipment transport, and failure to regularly inspect machinery. To reduce the risk of accidents, Alberta farmers should prioritize regular maintenance, ensure all parts are functioning correctly, and enforce strict safety standards, including proper operator training and the use of guards and protective gear.
2. Livestock injuries
If your farm focuses on livestock, you face significant risks due to the unpredictable nature of animals like cows, rams, and goats. These animals can kick, charge, or trample, especially when they feel threatened or are handled improperly, leading to serious injuries for farm workers.
Common causes of livestock-related injuries include weak barriers or fencing, improper handling techniques, and lack of understanding of animal behavior. Without proper containment, the risk of injury increases significantly.
To prevent such accidents, it’s essential to build strong barriers and enclosures to keep animals secure and reduce aggressive behavior. Additionally, regularly training workers in safe livestock-handling practices will help create a safer environment for both animals and farm workers.
3. Chemical hazards
As a farmer, there’s a high chance you use pesticides, fertilizers, and other chemicals to maintain crop growth, but these substances are known to pose serious health risks if mishandled. Some of these risks include respiratory complications, skin irritation, or more severe conditions such as poisoning.
Common causes of chemical hazards include improper storage, especially when they are kept in unsafe locations or unmarked containers. The lack of protective gear during usage and accidental spillage can also contaminate the soil, water, and air, which is harmful to you, your workers, and the environment.
To address these risks, make sure all chemicals are stored in clearly labeled containers with written instructions for safe use. Additionally, always ensure that you and your workers wear protective gear, such as gloves, masks, and goggles, when handling chemicals. This will help reduce health risks and protect the environment.
4. Fire and electrical risks
Fires and electrical hazards are significant risks in the farm industry due to the presence of flammable materials, poor ventilation, and faulty wiring in many agricultural settings.
Barn fires, in particular, can result in the tragic loss of livestock, equipment, and property. According to a report by the Canadians for Ethical Treatment of Farmed Animals Foundation (CETFA), 300,095 animals died in barn fires across Canada between 2015 and 2019. In Quebec, the figure was even higher, with 404,339 animal casualties during the same period.
The leading causes of fires and electrical hazards include improper use of electrical equipment, space heaters, corrosive, humid environments, faulty wiring, poor storage of flammable materials like hay, gasoline, or chemicals, and inadequate ventilation in storage areas.
To prevent these hazards, farms should conduct regular inspections to identify and repair faulty wiring, avoid using space heaters, and inspect wiring for corrosion. Flammable materials must be stored in cool, well-ventilated areas away from heat sources. Implementing fire safety protocols, such as installing fire extinguishers and ensuring clear emergency exit routes for workers and livestock, is also essential for reducing the risk of fire-related accidents.
5. Weather risks
Mother Nature’s unpredictability can lead to devastating events like wildfires, floods, and storms, which can destroy farms, wiping out crops, livestock, and infrastructure. In Alberta, these natural disasters are a frequent threat, making preparation essential for farmers.
To stay ahead, farmers should build effective drainage systems to protect against floods and invest in fire-resistant materials for barns and storage facilities. Taking these precautions can help reduce damage and safeguard farms against the impact of natural disasters.
Why is farm insurance necessary?
Farm insurance is essential for safeguarding your livelihood from the numerous risks that come with managing an agricultural operation. From equipment breakdowns to livestock injuries and weather-related disasters, having reputable farm insurance in Alberta ensures that unexpected events don’t threaten your financial stability.
MMI Insurance specializes in providing the best farm insurance solutions for every type of operation—whether it’s grain farming, ranching, or mixed, seed, or hay farming. Our extensive coverage includes farm dwellings, outbuildings, and machinery as well as a unique Alberta farmers’ liability insurance to protect against accidents that could lead to costly lawsuits.
What sets MMI Insurance apart from other farm insurance providers in Alberta is our personalized approach. We take the time to understand your specific needs, thus making sure that your farm has the right level of protection without overselling unnecessary coverage.
For more specific needs, we offer optional coverages like equipment breakdown, rock and root ingestion, and leased equipment insurance, allowing you to further customize your policy.
Stay Protected with Farm Insurance in Alberta
Addressing safety risks can help you protect your livestock, plants, workers, equipment, and ensure that you always have a safe agricultural environment. However, no amount of protection can be enough as some things just happen, such as weather hazards.
The best provider for farm insurance in Alberta, such as MMI Insurance, can help with the losses, but only if you are covered properly. Basic insurance policies will not be enough when it matters the most. Don’t wait until it is too late or leave your farm’s future to chance!
For more information, you can call us at 866-222-6996 or contact us online for a free, no-obligation quote and discover how our expertise can provide the protection your farm deserves.
