Slips, trips and falls are some of the most commonly occurring accidents for agricultural workers. These serious and often preventable incidents can result in significant injuries or death. Workers should be aware of these helpful tips to reduce their risk of injuries from falls at work:

• Wear footwear (e.g., shoes and boots) with slip-resistant soles and heels.
• Remove tools, cords or other items from walkways that might cause tripping hazards.
• Keep platforms, footplates and steps free of mud, snow, ice, manure and other debris.
• Never get out of tractors or other equipment before they’ve been completely stopped and the brakes have been set. Step down using the handholds or rails when exiting equipment, and never jump off unless it is an emergency (e.g., fire). Keep entrances to buildings clear and make sure that steps are free of mud, ice and snow buildup.
• Watch for uneven surfaces and fix them if any are discovered.
• Avoid running.
• Use handrails on steps and ramps.
• Request spotting assistance when carrying a heavy load that impacts visibility.
• Allow extra time to feed livestock and hitch equipment in muddy or wet conditions.
• Perform preventive maintenance tasks on equipment during the off-season to reduce rushing, which can lead to trip and fall injuries.
• Utilize fall protection devices and systems (e.g., guardrails and safety harnesses) when working at heights.

Ladders are a common source of falls in agricultural settings. To mitigate the fall risks associated with them, workers should be cautious and take the following measures:

• Ensure the weight (user plus materials) on the ladder does not exceed its maximum load rating and follow all ladder labels, markings and manufacturer instructions.
• Allow only one person on the ladder at a time and wear nonslip footwear on ladders.
• Carefully examine ladders to ensure they are in good working condition and free of slippery material before each use. Never paint wooden ladders, as this can disguise flaws or weak areas in the wood.
• Use the “4-to-1” rule when using straight ladders (i.e., setting up the ladder base 1 foot from a wall or building for every 4 feet of height).
• Lock a leg around the ladder if a task requires the use of both hands and never overreach or jump off a ladder.
• Always face the ladder when climbing up or down, maintain three points of contact and keep their body centered between the ladder rails.
• Keep their belt buckle or belly button between the ladder rungs while working for balance.
• Make sure both feet are on the ladder. Do not have one foot on the ladder and the other on an adjacent surface or object. Only use the ladder on a stable and level surface, and avoid ladder use when it’s windy, stormy, wet or icy.
• Ensure they are well-rested and not fatigued or dizzy.
• Avoid power lines.
• Secure the ladder so it cannot be moved when someone is on it.
• Ensure extension ladder locks are properly engaged.

Slips, trips and falls are common sources of injuries for agricultural workers. These risks can be mitigated through safety knowledge, proper ladder use and fall prevention strategies.

For additional risk management resources, contact INSURICA today.

This is not intended to be exhaustive nor should any discussion or opinions be construed as legal advice. Readers should contact legal counsel or an insurance professional for appropriate advice. ©2025 Zywave, Inc. All rights reserved