Getting the message to the farmer

The farm worker has been a difficult person to reach with information on the health hazards present in his/her work environment, even though the typical farm is a potentially dangerous place to work. The University of Minnesota Agricultural Extension Service has used OSHA 'New Directions' funding to develop a program specifically designed to increase the farmers' awareness of occupational health and safety hazards. The information has been packaged in units which can be used effectively by those people such as county agents, Vo-Ag teachers, and chemical dealers who have regular contact with the farmer. Each unit focuses on a single hazard such as noise, airborne substances and farm machinery repair. Slides and an audio cassette are provided along with background information for the instructor, a "pre" and "post" test, and discussion questions. Workshops providing instruction on the use of the materials are held through out the state at regular intervals.