Safety for Senior Farmers: As the average age of the rural workforce rises to 55, older farmers face increased risks of fatalities and injuries due to natural aging effects like loss of strength, eyesight, hearing, and memory. Over a five-year period, more than a third of farm injuries in NSW involved individuals aged over 55.

Hazards for older workers include working alone, operating quad bikes, using tractors and machinery, handling animals, and the risk of falls. Mitigation measures involve communication protocols, safety gear usage, regular check-ins, rest breaks, proper machinery operation, improved animal handling facilities, fall prevention strategies, and maintaining health and well-being through lifestyle choices and regular check-ups.

The Australian Centre of Agricultural Health and Safety has developed the Preventing falls for older farmers resource book, which provides practical advice on identifying and preventing falls.