The Government of Saskatchewan has officially designated March 10 to 16 as Agricultural Safety Week. The announcement comes as a reminder of the continuous need for safety in the agriculture industry, a sector known for its non-stop operations.
“Agriculture doesn’t take a break, making it crucial to prioritize safety throughout the year,” said David Marit, Agriculture Minister. He emphasized that Agricultural Safety Week serves as a vital reminder for the industry to keep both physical and mental safety at the forefront.
Don McMorris, Labour Relations and Workplace Safety Minister, also stressed the significance of the week, noting, “It’s a time to highlight the crucial role of safety in agriculture and the measures in place to ensure workers return home safely each day.” He pointed out essential safety practices such as using the correct equipment, adhering to safety programs, undergoing proper training, being aware of surroundings, and taking necessary breaks to prevent fatigue.
The week-long observance is part of a national initiative led by the Canadian Agricultural Safety Association (CASA) and supported by the Canadian Centre for Rural and Agricultural Health (CCRAH). This year’s theme, “Your Farm, Your Family, Your Success, Safety is Our Heritage,” aims to underline the importance of maintaining a safe environment on Canadian farms.
CASA’s CEO, Andrea Lear, highlighted the severe impacts of farm accidents, including their physical, psychological, and financial tolls. “Many on-farm incidents are preventable,” Lear stated. She underscored CASA’s commitment to providing resources and tools to help Canadian producers safeguard everyone involved in the farming and ranching sectors. Lear reminded that farm safety should be a year-round priority and that collaborative efforts can lead to a safer agricultural industry.
To show support for agricultural safety, individuals can wear an AgSafe ribbon available at Ministry of Agriculture regional offices throughout Saskatchewan. Digital versions of the ribbon are also downloadable from the CASA website.