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Discover the most basic and important things in the occupational safety document for the agricultural industry. From health protection measures for workers to safety regulations in the work process, this article will point out the most important factors to protect employees and improve efficiency in the agricultural industry.

Table of Contents

PART I: CURRENT STATE OF SAFETY IN THE AGRICULTURAL INDUSTRY

I. General Situation

The Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs informs sectors and localities of the occupational accident situation in the first 6 months of 2024 and outlines key solutions to proactively prevent incidents and accidents in the last 6 months of 2024. According to reports from 61 out of 63 centrally governed provinces and cities, in the first 6 months of 2024, there were a total of 3,201 occupational accidents nationwide (a decrease of 227 cases, equivalent to 7.09% compared to the same period in 2023), resulting in 3,065 victims (a decrease of 197 people, equivalent to 6.04% compared to the first 6 months of 2023), including both employees under labor contracts and those working without labor contracts. Specifically:

Number of fatal occupational accidents: 320 cases, a decrease of 25 cases (7.25%) compared to the first 6 months of 2023 (including 245 cases in areas with labor relations, a decrease of 28 cases or 10.3%; and 75 cases in areas without labor contracts, an increase of 3 cases or 4.2% compared to the first 6 months of 2023);
Number of deaths due to occupational accidents: 346 people, a decrease of 7 people or 1.98% compared to the same period in 2023 (including 268 in areas with labor relations, a decrease of 13 people or 4.63%; and 78 in areas without labor contracts, an increase of 6 people or 8.33%).
Number of people seriously injured: 810 people, an increase of 26 people or 3.32% compared to the first 6 months of 2023 (including 710 in areas with labor relations, a decrease of 5 people or 0.7%; and 100 in areas without labor contracts, an increase of 31 people or 44.92%).

Download the PDF file Occupational Accident Report – First 6 Months of 2024 issued by the Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs.

The occupational accident situation in the first 6 months of 2024 in both sectors with and without labor relations saw a decrease in the number of deaths and fatal accidents compared to the same period in 2023.

II. Some occupational accidents in the agricultural industry

The agricultural industry is not only one of the most important sectors of the economy but also a high-risk working environment. Despite advances in technology and occupational safety, regrettable accidents still occur every year, affecting the health and lives of agricultural workers. Below are some notable accidents in the agricultural industry:

Tractor and Harvester Accidents: The use of machinery in agriculture has reduced labor but also comes with a high risk of accidents. Colliding with obstacles, overturning, or getting caught in tractors and harvesters are common causes of serious accidents.
Risks of Working in a Hazardous Environment: Long-term exposure to chemicals, pesticides, and fertilizers can cause serious health problems for agricultural workers, including inhaling toxic gases, the risk of explosive contamination, and skin problems.
Accidents with Wild Animals: In activities such as raising wild animals or hunting, workers are at risk of being attacked or injured by wild animals, especially when safety regulations are not followed.
Accidents from Working at Height: Jobs such as harvesting fruit or milking often require working on high ground, elevators, or mobile platforms. Failure to follow safety rules when working at height can lead to serious accidents such as falling from a height.
Risks from Agricultural Weapons: The use of lawn mowers, chainsaws, and other agricultural tools all carry a risk of accidents if not used correctly or not properly maintained.

These accidents highlight the need to strengthen occupational safety and education about risks in the agricultural industry. By applying effective safety measures and providing training for workers, we can minimize the risk of accidents and protect the health of the farming community.

PART II: OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH WHEN WORKING IN THE AGRICULTURAL INDUSTRY

I. Occupational safety and health for soil tilling staff

1. Characteristics of soil tilling work

Soil tilling is one of the most important stages in the agricultural production process. This process includes many tasks such as tilling the soil, fertilizing, and smoothing the soil surface to create ideal conditions for planting.

The purpose of tilling the soil is to make it soft and easy to shape, helping the root system of the crop to grow better. Fertilizing is an important part of this process, aimed at providing the necessary nutrients for the crop. The methods of fertilizing and tilling can be adjusted depending on the type of crop and local conditions, to ensure that the crop grows strong and has the highest yield.

High precision and technique are required in this process, as the thorough preparation of the land will directly affect the growth and quality of the crop later. The goal of soil tilling is to create an ideal environment for the crop to grow, thereby ensuring the yield and quality of the agricultural product.

2. Types of occupational accidents during soil tilling

The process of tilling the soil, including tilling, fertilizing, and smoothing the soil surface, is not only an important part of the agricultural production process but also carries the risk of occupational accidents. This work requires attention and care to avoid unwanted situations.

One of the main risks is accidents due to the use of machinery such as plows, lawn mowers, or fertilizer spreaders. Failure to follow safety rules when operating this equipment can lead to serious accidents, including getting caught in the machine, collisions causing injury, or even falling from a height.

In addition, performing work with soil and fertilizer can also cause accidents due to working in a risky environment, such as the risk of inhaling dust or chemicals from fertilizer. Carelessness in the use and storage of chemicals can also be dangerous to the health of workers.

3. Causes of occupational accidents when tilling soil

Unsafe Use of Machinery: The use of machinery such as plows and fertilizer spreaders can cause accidents if safety rules are not followed during operation. Incidents such as getting caught in the machine, collisions, or falling from a height can occur if there is not enough attention from the operator.
Risks of Working in a Hazardous Environment: The use of fertilizer or contact with chemicals can create risks to the health of workers, including the risk of inhaling dust or chemicals, which can cause respiratory or skin problems.
Lack of Knowledge and Training: Workers who are not fully trained in occupational safety and do not have sufficient knowledge of how to use soil tilling equipment and materials can lead to dangerous situations and unwanted accidents.
Failure to Comply with Occupational Safety Rules: Failure to comply with occupational safety rules such as using personal protective equipment and not regularly inspecting and maintaining equipment can create a major accident risk.

4. Preventive measures for occupational accidents when tilling soil

Occupational Safety and Health Training: Training and educating workers on potential hazards and safety measures is extremely important. This training should include the use of personal protective equipment, safe work procedures, and how to handle emergency situations.
Use of Safety Equipment: Ensure that all machinery used is regularly inspected and properly maintained. Use personal protective equipment such as helmets, safety glasses, gloves, and non-slip shoes to protect workers from the risk of accidents.
Control of the Working Environment: Ensure that the working environment is always controlled to minimize risks from hazardous factors such as dust, toxic gases, or uneven ground. Use ventilation and dust extraction systems to maintain clean and safe air.
Job Differentiation: Break down the work into smaller tasks and clearly define the responsibilities of each worker to avoid confusion and collisions in the work process.
Monitoring and Evaluation: Conduct regular monitoring and evaluation of the effectiveness of safety measures, in order to adjust and improve the measures for preventing occupational accidents when tilling soil more effectively.

5. Occupational safety regulations for soil tilling

Use of Personal Protective Equipment: All workers involved in soil tilling must wear appropriate personal protective equipment such as helmets, safety glasses, gloves, and non-slip shoes to protect themselves from the risk of accidents.
Safety Training: All workers must be fully trained on potential hazards, safe work procedures, and emergency measures in case of an accident.
Equipment Inspection and Maintenance: The machinery and tools used in the soil tilling process must be regularly inspected and properly maintained to ensure safe operation.
Control of the Working Environment: The working environment needs to be controlled to minimize risks from hazardous factors such as dust, toxic gases, and uneven ground. The use of ventilation and dust extraction systems is necessary.
Job and Task Differentiation: The work should be broken down into smaller tasks and the responsibilities of each worker should be clearly defined to avoid confusion and collisions in the work process.

6. Handling of emergency occupational accidents when tilling soil

Protect the Worker: First and foremost, ensure the safety of the worker by eliminating the cause of the accident and moving the victim out of the danger zone. If possible, provide first aid to the injured person and call for emergency medical services immediately.
Secure the Accident Scene: Keep the accident scene safe by cordoning off the dangerous area, posting warning signs, and preventing the continued use of the equipment or machinery that caused the accident.
Report and Record: Report the incident immediately to management and/or the occupational safety department, and record the details of the accident situation, including the injured person, a description of the scene, and the rescue measures taken.
Evaluate and Prevent Similar Situations: After handling the accident situation, conduct a detailed evaluation of the cause and consequences of the incident. Based on the evaluation results, take preventive measures to avoid the recurrence of similar situations in the future.

II. Occupational safety and health for planting staff

1. Characteristics of planting work

The planting process is an important part of the agricultural production process, especially in growing crops for food and raw material production. After the soil has been prepared, this stage requires precision and knowledge of plant science to ensure that the plants grow strong and produce effectively.

The sowing of seeds or planting of seedlings requires a high degree of concentration and precision from the worker. The selection of the appropriate type of seed or seedling for the geographical and climatic conditions as well as the subsequent care process is extremely important.

In addition, knowledge of planting techniques is also very necessary. Adjusting the depth and spacing between seeds, as well as taking initial care steps such as regular watering and proper fertilization are decisive factors for the growth and yield of the crop later.

2. Types of occupational accidents in the planting process

Risk of Collision and Injury: During the planting process, workers may be at risk of colliding with the tools they are using, such as plows or seed drills. This can lead to injuries or pain in the muscles and bones.
Risk of Inhaling Dust and Chemicals: The use of fertilizer or chemicals in the planting process can create dust or chemicals in the air. Workers may be at risk of inhaling this dust or chemicals, which can cause respiratory or skin problems.
Risk of Injury from Work Tools: The use of sharp tools such as cutting knives, plow blades, or seed drills requires care. Workers need to be careful to avoid unwanted accidents such as cuts.
Risk of Working in Harsh Environmental Conditions: Planting often takes place outdoors, where there can be many harsh factors such as hot sun, strong rain, or slippery ground. This can create a risk of falls and injuries.

3. Causes of occupational accidents when planting

Lack of Knowledge and Skills: Workers lack the necessary knowledge and skills in planting techniques and the use of tools and equipment. A lack of understanding of the planting process and how to handle dangerous situations can lead to accidents.
Use of Unsafe Equipment: The use of unsafe or inadequately maintained tools and machinery can cause accidents. Technical failures on equipment such as seed drills, plows, or fertilizer pumps can lead to the risk of accidents.
Unsafe Working Environment: A harsh working environment such as slippery ground, harsh weather conditions, or insufficient lighting can create a risk for workers.
Lack of Management and Supervision: A lack of management and supervision of occupational safety in the planting process can lead to a failure to follow safety procedures and the use of personal protective equipment.

4. Preventive measures for occupational accidents when planting

Occupational Environmental Monitoring: Conduct regular occupational environmental monitoring to measure factors such as temperature, humidity, lighting, and air quality. This helps to promptly detect unsafe environmental conditions and take corrective measures.
Ensure Use of Personal Protective Equipment: Instruct and ensure that all workers use full and proper personal protective equipment such as helmets, safety glasses, gloves, and non-slip shoes to protect themselves from the risk of accidents.
Occupational Safety Training: Train and educate workers on potential hazards, safe work procedures, and emergency measures in case of an accident. At the same time, provide knowledge on planting techniques and the correct use of equipment.
Control of the Working Environment: Ensure that the working environment is always controlled to minimize risks from hazardous factors such as dust, toxic gases, and harsh weather conditions.
Job and Task Differentiation: Break down the work into smaller tasks and clearly define the responsibilities of each worker to avoid confusion and collisions in the work process.

5. Occupational safety regulations for planting

Use of Personal Protective Equipment: All workers involved in the planting process must wear full personal protective equipment such as helmets, safety glasses, gloves, and non-slip shoes to protect themselves from the risk of accidents.
Occupational Safety Training: Provide full training and education on potential hazards, safe work procedures, and emergency measures in case of an accident. At the same time, workers need to be trained on planting techniques and the correct use of equipment.
Control of the Working Environment: Ensure that the working environment is always controlled to minimize risks from hazardous factors such as dust, toxic gases, and harsh weather conditions.
Equipment Inspection and Maintenance: The equipment used in the planting process needs to be regularly inspected and properly maintained to ensure safe operation.
Job and Task Differentiation: Break down the work into smaller tasks and clearly define the responsibilities of each worker to avoid confusion and collisions in the work process.

6. Handling of emergency occupational accidents when planting

Check the Victim’s Condition: As soon as an accident occurs, check the victim’s condition and provide appropriate first aid. If the victim is seriously injured or needs medical attention, call for help from paramedics or take the victim to the nearest medical facility.
Secure the Scene: Ensure your own safety and that of others by securing the accident scene. Prevent further accidents by isolating the area and posting warning signs for others.
Report and Note: Report the incident immediately to management and medical staff, providing detailed information about the victim’s condition and the first aid measures taken. Note down important details about the accident for later investigation.
Provide Moral Support: Provide moral support to the victim and other employees in the process of handling the emergency situation. Ensure that they are provided with the necessary information and support to overcome this difficult situation.
Evaluate and Analyze: After the accident has been handled, conduct an evaluation and analysis to determine the cause and propose improvement measures to prevent similar accidents from occurring in the future.

III. Occupational safety and health for crop care staff

1. Characteristics of crop care work

Watering: Providing enough water for the crop is an important factor in maintaining its growth and development. However, watering needs to be done at the right time and in the right amount to avoid a lack of water or an excess of water, which can cause problems for the crop.
Fertilizing: The use of organic or chemical fertilizer to provide nutrients for the crop helps it to grow strong and produce a high yield. The selection of the appropriate type of fertilizer and the application of the correct dosage is necessary to ensure its effectiveness.
Weed Control: The removal of weeds in the crop garden helps to reduce competition for nutrients, light, and space for the crop. The use of methods such as mowing or the safe use of herbicides to control weeds.
Crop Protection from Pests and Diseases: The implementation of preventive and control measures to protect the crop from pests and diseases and harmful bacteria. The effective and environmentally safe use of pesticides and plant protection products.

2. Types of occupational accidents in the process of crop care

Risk of Drowning during Watering: The work of watering can be at risk of drowning when working near canals, ponds, or natural water sources. A loss of balance or a slip on slippery surfaces is another cause of the risk of drowning.
Risk of Fertilizer and Chemical Contamination: The use of fertilizer and chemicals in the process of fertilizing and pest control can be dangerous if safety procedures are not followed. Fertilizer contamination or direct contact with chemicals can cause skin irritation, eye inflammation, and even be dangerous to the respiratory system.
Occupational Accidents Related to Machinery and Equipment: The use of machinery and equipment in the process of crop care can cause accidents related to machinery, such as collisions, cuts, or being pulled into by the operating mechanisms of the machinery.
Risk of Injury from Weeds and Thorns: During the process of weed control, workers may be at risk of injury from contact with thorny weeds or other sharp materials.
Risk of Puncture from Pests and Insects: The control of pests and insects may require the use of pesticides or other chemicals. Direct or incorrect contact with these substances can be dangerous to the health of workers.

3. Causes of occupational accidents when caring for crops

Lack of Training and Knowledge: Workers who lack knowledge and training on how to properly use equipment and chemicals can lead to accidents. Not knowing how to use machinery, fertilizer, or pesticides safely can cause dangerous situations.
Lack of Personal Protective Equipment: A lack of using personal protective equipment such as helmets, safety glasses, gloves, and non-slip shoes can make workers vulnerable to the risk of accidents.
Lack of Occupational Safety Management: A lack of occupational safety management can lead to a lack of risk control and the implementation of safety measures. The absence of a safety plan or failure to follow safety procedures increases the risk of accidents.
Harsh Environmental Conditions: Harsh environmental conditions such as extreme weather, unstable land, or a polluted working environment can create an unsafe working environment.
Lack of Supervision and Education: A lack of understanding and supervision from managers or educators about risks and safety measures can cause carelessness or inattention to the risks of accidents.

4. Preventive measures for occupational accidents when caring for crops

Training and Education: Provide full training on occupational safety and the use of equipment for all employees involved in crop care. Train them to recognize and deal with specific accident risks in each stage.
Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Ensure that all workers are fully equipped with personal protective equipment such as helmets, safety glasses, gloves, and non-slip shoes when performing tasks such as watering, fertilizing, weed control, and protecting crops from pests and diseases.
Conduct Safety Inspections: Before performing any work, carefully inspect the equipment, machinery, and chemicals to ensure they are working correctly and safely.
Follow Safety Procedures: Always follow the safety procedures and manufacturer’s instructions for the use of machinery, chemicals, and equipment. Ensure that all workers know how to use them safely and effectively.
Control of the Working Environment: Create a safe working environment by eliminating potential hazards such as thorny weeds, sharp materials, and a cramped or unsafe working environment.
Supervision and Feedback: Conduct regular supervision to ensure that all workers are following the safety rules. Provide timely feedback on unsafe behavior and improve work procedures when necessary.

5. Occupational safety regulations for crop care

Take tests at occupational safety centers for the purpose of obtaining an occupational safety certificate. From there, workers will have a clear understanding of safety knowledge as well as valid certification for employment.
Training and Education: All workers involved in crop care need to be trained on safety measures, the use of personal protective equipment, and the safe handling of chemicals.
Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): The personal protection of workers is a top priority. All workers need to be fully equipped with personal protective equipment such as helmets, safety glasses, gloves, and non-slip shoes.
Equipment Inspection and Maintenance: Before each use, it is necessary to carefully inspect the equipment such as watering machines, fertilizer spreaders, and weed control equipment to ensure they are working correctly and safely.
Safe Use of Chemicals: Always follow the instructions for the safe use and storage of chemicals. Use fertilizers and pesticides according to the manufacturer’s instructions and ensure there is no direct contact when not necessary.
Coordination and Communication: Ensure coordination and communication between all workers in the work process. Communicate information about potential risks and the safety measures to be taken.
Note Safety Measures: Record and clearly display the safety measures to be taken at the workplace, including instructions for the use of equipment, safe work procedures, and information on the need for PPE.

6. Handling of emergency occupational accidents when caring for crops

Call for an Ambulance Immediately: If any accident occurs, the worker should call for an ambulance immediately to get professional medical assistance.
Stop Work and Protect the Victim: Ensure that the victim is moved out of further danger and is protected from other causes of danger.
Control the Situation: Immediately assess the situation and determine the cause of the accident to take corrective measures and prevent the situation from worsening.
Provide First Aid on the Spot: If possible, provide first aid on the spot to the victim, such as how to recognize and treat wounds and acute incidents.
Report and Record: Report the incident immediately to management and the competent authorities, and record the details of the accident situation and the measures taken.
Review and Re-evaluate the Work Process: After the accident, review the work process to identify weaknesses and improve the occupational safety system.

IV. Occupational safety and health for harvesting staff

1. Characteristics of harvesting work

The harvesting process is an important part of the agricultural production chain, especially when it comes to the ripeness or ideal harvesting time of products such as fruits, vegetables, or rice. Harvesting at the right time not only affects the yield but also determines the quality and commercial value of the product.

The work of harvesting includes meticulousness, precision, and speed to ensure that the product is harvested when it reaches optimal ripeness. This requires a deep knowledge of the growth and development process of the specific crop, along with the ability to assess and judge ripeness based on factors such as color, size, and hardness of the product.

After harvesting, the immediate handling and preservation of the product is extremely important to maintain quality. Preservation measures include cooling, packaging, rapid transportation, and storage in suitable conditions to prevent quality degradation and minimize waste.

2. Types of occupational accidents in the harvesting process

Terrain-related Risks: Uneven, steep, or thorny terrain can create a risk of falls, slips, or tumbles when moving and harvesting products.
Use of Equipment and Tools: The use of machinery and tools such as cutting machines, tractors, or harvesting tools can cause accidents if not used correctly or properly maintained.
Harsh Weather Conditions: Weather conditions such as heavy rain, strong winds, or high temperatures can create a risk for outdoor work and cause accidents.
Labor Force Issues: A shortage of labor or an overload of work can lead to fatigue, loss of concentration, and an increased risk of accidents.
Movement and Transportation Process: The movement of products from the harvesting site to the storage site or market can also be at risk of accidents if safety procedures are not followed.

3. Causes of occupational accidents when harvesting

Use of Unsafe Equipment and Machinery: The use of machinery that is not properly maintained, or the use of old and damaged equipment can lead to unwanted accidents.
Lack of Knowledge and Training: Workers who lack knowledge of safe work procedures or are not fully trained on how to use equipment and tools can create conditions for accidents to occur.
Unsafe Environmental Conditions: An unsafe working environment such as uneven terrain, high slopes, or harsh weather conditions can increase the risk of accidents.
Lack of Safety Management: A lack of safety management and the failure to implement preventive measures can create an unsafe working environment.
Work Overload and Fatigue: An overload of work or working for long periods of time can reduce concentration and increase the risk of accidents.

4. Preventive measures for occupational accidents when harvesting

Complete the occupational safety training course to be issued an occupational safety card by the occupational safety training center to complete your work records as required.
Training and Education: Provide full training and education on safe work procedures, the use of equipment and machinery, as well as the recognition of and response to the risk of accidents.
Equipment Inspection and Maintenance: Conduct regular inspections and proper maintenance for harvesting machinery and equipment to ensure they operate safely and efficiently.
Occupational Safety Management: Implement strict occupational safety management, including job assignment, supervision, and risk assessment to prevent accidents from occurring.
Use of Protective Equipment: Ensure that all workers are fully equipped with protective equipment such as helmets, non-slip shoes, and gloves to protect them from the risk of accidents.
Monitoring of Weather and Environmental Conditions: Monitor the weather and working environmental conditions to identify risks from unsafe conditions such as heavy rain, slippery ground, or uneven ground.
Reasonable Work Distribution: Distribute work reasonably and avoid labor overload to reduce the risk of fatigue and accidents.

5. Occupational safety regulations for harvesting

Use of Protective Equipment: All workers must ensure they are fully equipped with protective equipment such as helmets, gloves, and non-slip shoes to protect themselves from the risk of accidents.
Training and Education: Provide full training on occupational safety and the use of equipment to enhance awareness of risks and preventive measures.
Inspection of Equipment and Machinery: Before use, it is necessary to inspect the equipment and machinery to ensure they are working correctly and do not pose a danger to the user.
Monitoring of Environmental Conditions: Monitor the weather and environmental conditions to take appropriate preventive measures such as when there is heavy rain or slippery conditions.
Reasonable Work Distribution: Distribute work fairly and reasonably to avoid labor overload and reduce the risk of accidents.
Reporting and Handling of Accidents: If an accident occurs, it is necessary to report and handle it in a timely manner to prevent further harm and provide first aid to the victim.

6. Handling of emergency occupational accidents when harvesting

Ensure Safety: First and foremost, ensure your own safety and that of others in the area of the accident. Move the victim out of danger if possible and call for an ambulance immediately.
Report Immediately: Notify management or the competent authority of the accident so that they can provide assistance and implement measures to remedy the cause of the accident.
Provide First Aid to the Victim: If possible, provide basic first aid to the victim while calling for professional help from medical staff.
Maintain the Accident Area: Ensure that the accident area is maintained and safe, with no risk of further accidents for other workers.
Conduct an Investigation: Conduct a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the accident and propose future preventive measures.
Provide Psychological Support: Provide psychological support to the employees and staff directly involved in handling the accident situation.