National Safety Week Puts Focus on Workplace Safety and Prevention
State safety officials are directing agricultural employers to train on tractor operation and rural road hazards.
- By Chelsey Arries
- Sep 21, 2026
Tractor incidents involving overturns, runovers, power takeoff systems and attachments are among the leading causes of farmworker injuries and deaths, according to the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries.
The department highlighted equipment and rural roadway safety as part of National Farm Safety and Health Week. Its resources include brief videos with injury prevention guidance for employees working around farm vehicles and machinery.
Employers can reduce tractor-related hazards by properly training operators, installing rollover protection systems and requiring seat belt use. L&I also recommends guarding moving parts, following manufacturer instructions and incorporating tractor safety into the employer’s accident prevention program.
Older tractors, equipment in poor condition and machines without appropriate guards or safety devices can contribute to hazardous working conditions. Risky or irregular operating practices may also increase the likelihood of an incident.
Tractor operators can face additional occupational hazards, including outdoor heat, silica-containing field dust, pesticides and airborne anhydrous ammonia from fertilizer. Washington requirements address agricultural operations, power transmission machinery, rollover protection and farm vehicles.
L&I provides tractor safety training materials, guides and investigation reports, along with information about requesting a workplace safety consultation.
About the Author
Chelsey Arries is assistant editor for Security Today, Campus Security Today, Occupational Health & Safety and Environmental Protection Online.