Risk factors for work-related injury among farm workers: A one-year study

MOLINERI, A.I.; SIGNORINI, M.L.; TARABLA, H.D.

Rural and Remote Health

Deakin University

Año: 2015 vol. 15 p. 1 - 8

1445-6354

A one-year prospective study was carried out to look for risk factors of farm-related injuries in Egusquiza, Santa Fe (Argentina). Information on demographic characteristics and occupational accidents was collected on (N=110, n=78) farm workers by means of personal interviews using a structure questionaire. Monthly telephone contact was then maintained with the workers for one year to document all farm-related injuries. Data analysis included incidence rate, χ2 and logistic regression. Sixty-nine farm-related injuries were reported during the study period, being six the maximum number of injuries affecting one worker. Forty-six point three percent of the workers suffered at least one injury during the year. The incidence rate was 7.5 injuries/ 100 individual-month at risk. Medical assistance was needed in 26.8% of the cases and 5.8% of the injuries caused at least one day off work. Hospitalization for at least one day was required for 2.9% of the injured workers. Previous work related injury in the family (P= 0.005) (OR= 4.6, IC95%= 1.6 ? 13.3) and worker?s activity (P= 0.021) (OR= 3.7, IC95%= 1.2 ? 11.6) were associated with the dependent variable work injury. Agricultural and livestock farming are of great importance for the national economy. Worker´s training on farm safety may play a key role to prevent work related injuries and diseases.