Columbus Community Hospital to Hold Free Ag Safety Event
Columbus Community Hospital is committed to the health and safety of our agricultural community. That’s why it’s hosting a free Ag Safety Event on Tuesday, Feb. 25, from 7:30 a.m. to noon at the Columbus Innovation Center (2311 14th St., Columbus). This event will provide valuable resources and information to help create a healthier and more productive farming environment.
Attendees can take advantage of free occupational health screenings, including bone mineral density, blood pressure, hearing and vision checks. Reduced-cost options will also be available, such as fasting wellness profiles and Prevnar 20 and Tdap vaccinations. For truck drivers, Dr. Vilma Rodriguez-Cline of Occupational Health Services will be available to perform physicals for $50 by appointment (call 402-562-4480 to schedule).
The event will feature educational sessions on critical topics in agriculture, presented by experts in their fields:
8 a.m.: "Managing food safety operations," presented by Scott Buresh of Buresh Meats.
9 a.m.: “Pesticide recertification,” presented by Bruno Patias Lena of Nebraska Extension.
11 a.m.: "Conversations on access to lethal means," presented by Linda Emanuel, BSN, RN, AgriSafe Network.
Farm safety is paramount, says Dr. Rodriguez-Cline. “When operating tractors, forklifts or any other farm equipment,” she stressed, “always buckle up. A seatbelt is your first line of defense in a rollover or other accident.”
She also emphasizes the importance of appropriate gear: “Personal protective equipment (PPE) isn't optional; it's essential,” she said. ”Make sure you're using the right PPE for the task at hand, whether it's eye protection, gloves or respiratory masks.”
Danielle Frewing, director of Occupational Health Services at Columbus Community Hospital, says there are a range of threats in agriculture, including livestock handling accidents; machinery accidents; collisions; chemical exposures; and exposures to dust, mists and fumes. “Extreme noise, which can cause hearing loss, is another significant concern,” she said. “Workers in the agricultural industry are also at higher risk of behavioral and mental health issues such as depression, anxiety and substance abuse.”
For farmers looking to improve safety on their operations, Frewing suggests seeking support from the Nebraska Department of Agriculture, the AgriSafe Network, local and state extension offices and the Central States Center for Agricultural Safety and Health (CS-CASH), offered through the University of Nebraska Medical Center. These organizations offer a wealth of information, resources and training programs to help farmers implement effective safety practices.
The Ag Safety Event is made possible by the generous support of sponsors including Alpha Media, Columbus Community Hospital, CVA, Farm Credit Services, GPS Bank, Pinnacle Bank, Union Bank & Trust and numerous other health-minded businesses. Their support demonstrates a community-wide commitment to agricultural safety, and attendees can visit their booths at the event’s vendor fair.
To learn more about the Ag Safety Event, visit https://www.columbushosp.org/for-the-community/ag-safety-event.