Farmer’s lung or Hypersensitivity pneumonitis

Farmer’s lung is a serious respiratory condition also known as hypersensitivity pneumonitis. It affects people whose immune system is sensitive to fungal spores inhaled from:

• Mouldy hay
• Straw
• Grain
• Compost

Farmer’s lung is different from farmer’s fever also known as (ODTS – Organic Dust Toxic Syndrome) because it involves an allergic immune response that leads to inflammation and permanent tissue damage in the terminal airways of the lung. Farmers lung is associated with intense or repeated exposures to biologic dust and different organisms can cause farmers lung. It was described as early as 1713 notably in farmers exposed to organic dusts. Spread between people is non-existent, however, common exposure to the offending agent can lead to similar and numerous cases. Some agricultural industries with possible known exposures associated with hypersensitivity pneumonitis include:

• Greenhouse farming
• Mushroom, farming
• Bird or poultry handling (‘bird breeder/fancier’s lung’)
• Grain processing (wheat weevil disease)
• Hay packing, storing and handling particularly when humid
• Woodworkers lung

Symptoms
The symptoms of farmer’s lung in acute attacks can last from 12 hours to 10 days. Symptoms include:

• Chills
• Fever
• Cough
• Shortness of breath
• Tight feeling in the chest
• Tiredness

For those farmers who are sensitive, repeated exposure to the allergic trigger can lead to more severe symptoms such as chronic cough with phlegm containing pus, shortness of breath, loss of appetite and weight loss. Lung scarring (fibrosis) can occur in the later stages of the disease which greatly impacts respiratory health and cause difficulty breathing.

Farmer’s lung can be prevented by ensuring organic materials are kept dry and stored properly. Also keeping away from known allergens. Keep storage areas well-ventilated and wear appropriate Australian Standard respiratory masks which seal the face properly and protect the lungs. If working in greenhouse environs ensuring adequate ventilation and appropriate breaks out of the environment. These actions will minimise the risk of inhaling the allergic trigger and prevent the condition developing or progressing.

Fast facts:

• Farmer’s lung is often caused by inhaling fungal spores or bacteria from mouldy hay, grains, compost.
• Farmer’s lung can be slowed if it is identified early. So tell your doctor about any symptoms like breathing problems, chills and fevers.
• Keep hay, grains and other organic materials dry as fungal spores can only grow in moist conditions.
• Wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) if having to work at high risk sites.
• As farmers lungs symptoms are like a viral illness if can be misdiagnosed.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and respiratory illness is a major cause of death in Australia and is present in farming communities. COPD is an abbreviated term for lung conditions which include emphysema, chronic bronchitis and chronic asthma all of which are irreversible.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), is often a debilitating disease that is both preventable and treatable. Previously identified as a disease of mostly smokers, COPD is now considered to be a risk of some occupational exposures.

COPD is a long-term condition of the lungs that causes shortness of breath. Even though COPD is irreversible and there is no cure, there are things you can do to breathe easier and improve your quality of life particularly if it is diagnosed and managed early. Importantly there are things you can do to prevent COPD, in the first place.

Most cases of COPD develop after repeatedly breathing in fumes (usually tobacco smoke) and dust that damage the lungs over a long period of time. It is also known that exposure to bushfire smoke and coal smoke increases the risk of worsening existing asthma or COPD. Farmers have high rates of COPD when compared to non-farming workers despite generally lower rates of smoking. This suggests that on-farm exposure to lung irritants such as animal dander, organic and inorganic dusts, smoke, fumes and chemical vapours may play a key role. The good news is there has been a steady decline in tobacco smoking since the 1970s, and we are now seeing a steady decline in COPD-related deaths.  An important factor in COPD among farmers is likely to be the respiratory exposures encountered during working and living on the farm. Exposures from livestock handling, poultry, organic and inorganic dusts, bacteria, endotoxin, spores and potentially toxic gases, such as those found in silos, vats, tanks, bushfire smoke and welding fumes.

COPD and COVID-19

Having a clinical diagnosis of COPD increases the risk of having poor clinical outcomes if you become infected with COVID-19.  People with COPD are a high-risk group, and should take all preventative measures to avoid COVID-19 and if infected seek further medical advice.

Preventing exposure is very important.

To find out more about COPD visit Better Health Channel

Fast facts:

• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) describes a range of lung conditions like bronchitis and emphysema.
• COPD is related to smoking. Farmers have a higher rate of COPD than the general population even though rates of smoking are lower among farmers.
• Wear an appropriate mask when dealing with dust, agricultural chemicals or smoke from fires.
• Avoid getting infections and have an annual flu vaccination and be up to date with your COVID-19 vaccinations and boosters.

Asthma

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory lung condition which causes the air ways (bronchi) of the lungs to become inflamed and narrow. The inflammation results in increased mucous production and bronchoconstriction, making it harder to breathe.

Asthma can be a life threatening condition if not treated and managed properly. It affects one in nine Australians. 

Another asthma term that affects the farming community is  thunderstorm asthma. People at risk for thunderstorm asthma are those that have spring-time allergic rhinitis (hayfever)/confirmed ryegrass pollen and allergy. It isn’t a specific type or diagnosis of asthma, but it is a trigger for some people and can be very serious. It can happen suddenly to people susceptible to asthma and or hay fever and if grass pollen is a problem for you then you may be at risk for a thunderstorm asthma event. 

Hazards and risks for farming men, women, children and agricultural workers are high as they are exposed to irritants such as organic and inorganic dusts from pollens, animal dander, grain and hay, which can trigger asthma attacks in susceptible people. Being overweight has also been identified as a risk of developing asthma as fat tissue produces inflammatory substances that might affect the lungs.

Exposure to organic and inorganic dusts is likely to occur when working with or around:

• Stock, grain, soil, hay and silage which is being moved or transported
• Grain which is being harvested and stored
• Smoke released from burn offs or bushfires
• Pollens released from pastures, crops and trees.

The most common signs of asthma are:

• Coughing – especially at night, during exercise or when laughing
• Difficulty breathing
• Chest tightness
• Shortness of breath
• Wheezing (a whistling or squeaky sound in your chest when breathing, especially when exhaling)

There are many allergens in the agricultural workplace that may irritate and cause asthma to develop in a previously healthy person or trigger asthma symptoms in someone that already has asthma.

Recommendations and strategies to reduce your risk of developing asthma and/or having an asthma attack include:

• Limiting exposure to dust, smoke and pollens by wearing a fitted face mask
• Stop smoking
• Avoid allergens that may trigger asthma attacks
• Encourage a diet high in fruit, vegetables, wholegrains and lean protein
• Work with your employer/employees to reduce exposures to irritants/triggers on the farm
• Talk to your GP or Respiratory Nurse Practitioner about having a Spirometry (breathing test) and a written  asthma management plan (also referred to as an asthma action plan).

Asthma attacks can develop over a few minutes or a few days. In an emergency situation, farming men, women, children and agricultural workers need to act quickly as they may have longer travel distances to seek medical treatment – placing them at greater health risk. For this reason it is important to have an asthma management plan in place for those individuals on the farm or workplace who are known to suffer from asthma. This plan should at least contain:

• Individual’s identified triggers
• Strategies to minimise asthma risks
• Individual’s emergency response plan including medication management (with inhalers or puffers).

In all cases, asthma becomes a medical emergency if the person finds it increasingly difficult to breathe and talk, has severe chest tightness, feels distressed and they are sucking in their throat and their ribs are retracting (pulling in).

Call triple zero (000) for an ambulance in an emergency.

To learn more about asthma emergency first aid visit Better Health Channel.

To find out more thunderstorm asthma visit Better Health Channel.

Fast facts

• Asthma is a respiratory disease that affects the small air ways of the lung. Asthma can be controlled with appropriate preventative medication (inhalers or puffers).
• Attacks can be triggered by dust, grains, smoke and pollens.
• Attacks can be prevented and managed if strategies to reduce exposures to irritants and triggers are in place. 
• People with asthma who live or work on a farm should have a personal asthma management/action plan. 

Aspergillosis

Aspergillosis is an infection, a growth or an allergic reaction caused by the Aspergillus mould (fungus). This commonly grows on rotting vegetation.

The tiny Aspergillosis spores can be inhaled resulting in illnesses that usually affect the respiratory system. Some people with asthma are allergic to Aspergillus and develop allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA). 

Symptoms of ABPA are: 

• Wheezing
• Breathlessness
• Significant worsening of asthma symptoms
• Chest pain.

Ongoing irritation of the airways can cause complications including: 

• Blood-stained sputum
• Fever 
• Permanent damage to bronchiolar walls which affects your ability to breathe 
• Increased risk of lung infections.  

If the infection spreads it can affect eyes, sinuses and other organs. 

Hazards and risks of Aspergillosis in farmers occurs when working with composting or decaying vegetation such as silage, rain damaged hay or mouldy grain. 

Silage, mouldy hay and grain can contain the Aspergillus mould spores which are tiny at 2-3 microns and can go deep into your lungs when inhaled, causing respiratory illness.

Hay baled at high moisture content levels increases the likelihood of hay becoming mouldy. Hay which is darker in colour or has a musty smell is indicative of mould being present.

Horses, dogs, cows and birds are also susceptible to Aspergillosis if exposed to mould spores as a result of being fed mouldy hay or grain, especially in poorly ventilated, confined areas. Mouldy hay can contain toxins that are harmful to stock especially pregnant milking cows which can lead to abortion.

Recommendations for the prevention of Asperigillosis include wearing a mask that complies with Australian Standards when handling mouldy hay or composting vegetation. Fitting the mask correctly is essential, because the presence of facial hair such as beards or even being unshaven can reduce the effectiveness of the mask. Facial hair can be 15 microns and Aspergillus spores are only 2-3 micron, therefore having an effective fitting mask is vital.

Find out more on Better Health Channel.

Fast facts:

• Is an infection, growth or allergic reaction caused by the Aspergillus fungus that can cause respiratory illness
• Always wear a well fitted P2 dust mask to prevent spores from being inhaled when working with silage, mouldy hay or grain.
• Asperigillosis can also affect animals such as horses, cows, birds and dogs
• Avoid feeding animals mouldy hay or grain

Farmer’s fever – Organic Toxic Dust Syndrome (ODTS)

Farmer’s fever, also called organic dust toxic syndrome (ODTS), is caused by breathing in dust that contains moulds from spoiled plant materials such as baled hay, stored grain or silage. It is a common respiratory illness in farmers, particularly those working with grain, hay, silage and confined animals. The symptoms are a fever and flu-like symptoms which occur 4 to 12 hours after exposure to contaminated dust.

The symptoms of farmer’s fever will usually disappear within one to three days after you are no longer exposed to the dust. However subsequent exposures may increase the risk of a range of respiratory symptoms. (Farmer’s Lung, 2016). ODTS is often misdiagnosed, so it is important to tell your doctor about any recent dust exposures you may have had.

You can reduce your risk of developing ODTS by minimising hay spoilage, wetting down dusty areas and wearing a mask or respirator.

Fast facts:

• Organic dust toxic syndrome or farmer’s fever is caused by inhaling mouldy dust.
• Farmer’s fever is a common respiratory illness in farmers.
• Tell your doctor if you’ve been exposed to dust and you have flu-like symptoms.

Diabetes

Diabetes is one of the most common chronic conditions in Australia. It is estimated that around 1.7 million Australians have diabetes and includes all types of diagnosed diabetes (1.2 million known and registered) as well as silent, undiagnosed Type 2 diabetes where it is estimated there are another additional 500,000.

Diabetes is associated with earlier death and other chronic illnesses such as cardiovascular disease (heart disease, kidney disease and eye disease such as visual loss and blindness..

There are two main types of diabetes. Type 1 diabetes develops when your pancreas is no longer producing insulin so you are unable to process sugar/glucose in your body. Type 1 diabetics must be supplemented with insulin through injections or a pump. Type 2 diabetes develops when your body is no longer able to efficiently produce and release insulin from the pancreas to maintain healthy blood glucose levels.

Surprisingly farming men, women and agricultural workers who live rurally are at increased risk of developing diabetes, due to rural and remote communities experiencing higher rates of diabetes compared to major cities. Hospitalisation and death rates in remote and very remote areas due to diabetes are two times as high as in major cities. A possible contributing factor to this increased risk is the use of modernised farm equipment, vehicles and farm technology. These sedentary changes result in reduced physical activity from sitting in machinery and excess energy from food not being utilised. When excess energy is not used by the body, it is converted to body fat which can potentially sit around the waist as abdominal fat or toxic waste. Large waist measurements or excess abdominal fat is one of the greatest risk factors in the development of Type 2 diabetes. Other factors which increase the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes include: family history of diabetes, being overweight or obese, inactivity and an unhealthy diet.

To see if you might be at risk of diabetes, take the Diabetes Ausdrisk test. It only takes a few minutes and is free. The good news is that in most cases Type 2 diabetes can be prevented through diet and exercise. A few lifestyle choices or changes can help protect you against developing Type 2 diabetes.

1. Maintain a healthy weight – this can be done through exercise and healthy eating (outlined below)
2. Exercise regularly – try to build some activity into your daily routine. For example, walk instead of taking the ute or quad bike.
3. Make healthy food choices – concentrate on getting the recommended servings of fruit, vegetables, lean meats and grains each day. See the Australian Guide to Healthy Eating for more information. Also, visit our Fact Sheet on Healthy Lunchbox ideas.
4. Manage your blood pressure – talk to your GP about how they can help you with this.
5. Manage cholesterol – while cholesterol can be influenced by your genetics, diet is really important in keeping cholesterol levels within a healthy range. For more information, see the Heart Foundation for healthy eating and cholesterol. Also, talk to your GP about how they can help you with this.

Often farmers are very busy and put off taking care of their health.  Living in rural and remote communities may involve long distance travel to access health services such as a doctor, diabetes educator or dietitian. There are online and phone services that are confidential and will help support you to manage your health and reduce your risk of diabetes. Read more about preventing diabetes at Diabetes Australia.

Fast facts:

• Diabetes is one of the most common chronic diseases in Australia and is a very serious condition, but it can often be prevented.
• Make the time to exercise and eat plenty of fruit and vegetables.
• Being overweight is a risk factor for diabetes; manage your weight to manage your health. Make sure you build some activity into your daily routine.
• Living a long way out of town can make access to fresh food difficult. Start a veggie garden and grow some of your own healthy food.

Wound care

Skin wounds need to be cleaned and dressed.  Contrary to many myths, wounds that are kept moist heal better and faster than those exposed to the air. Protecting the wound with a dressing provides a moist environment that encourages the surface skin cells to migrate across the gap and join up. Put simply a ‘dry wound’ is a ‘dead wound’ and you don’t want a dead wound!

Letting a wound ‘breathe’ is a common cause of wounds failing to heal. This issue has been investigated scientifically, and it is conclusively demonstrated that a covered wound heals faster than an uncovered wound! This is because the dry scab actually slows the growth of new skin cells.

Because farmers often keep knocking their wounds on their hands and limbs they can take a long time to heal. Using a dressing will help the wound heal.  Other causes of wounds failing to heal are ongoing trauma, infection, deep burns, skin cancers or underlying medical conditions such as diabetes.

If you have a blister don’t pop the blister. Wounds covered by blisters heal better and more quickly when the blister remains intact, rather than broken. This is because the skin cover provides protection and a warm moist environment to allow for healing.

For more information on wound care visit Better Health Channel

Fast facts:

• Stop wounds bleeding by covering with a clean bandage and apply direct pressure.
• Clean wounds by washing with water. Don’t scrub. Use antiseptic and cover minor cuts with sterile bandage for 48 hours.
• Make sure any foreign material is removed.
• If you can’t clean the wound properly or, if it is deep or not healing, you will need medical help.

Snake bite

Australia has some of the world’s deadliest snakes, and snake bites in Australia most commonly happen in the warmer months when snakes are more active. They mainly live in rural and remote areas and are found out and about on farms looking for water or food.

Snake bites often occur if a snake needs to be defensive. Common sites to be bitten are hands, arms, feet and ankles. Medical assistance is required urgently after a snake bite.

Do not attempt to catch the snake. The snake may bite again if an attempt is made to catch it. Identification of the snake species can be obtained in the hospital through patient samples of blood and urine.

Symptoms of snake bite may include:

• pain
• local effects – swelling or bruising around the bite
• widespread effects – including abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, blurred vision, slurred speech, muscle weakness and respiratory distress.

First aid for snake bite aims to stop the venom moving around the body. Depending on the volume of venom injected, research indicates very little venom reaches the circulation if pressure is applied over the site and the limb is immobilised. If the snake is angry and stirred up, it may release more venom when it strikes.

What you should do:

• Call an ambulance
• DO NOT wash the bite or attempt to catch/kill the snake.
• DO NOT apply a tourniquet or remove clothing.
• Apply pressure to the bite area.
• If a limb is bitten, bandage the area of the bite firmly with a broad (10-15cm wide) pressure bandage (as firmly as you would for a sprained ankle).
• Apply another broad bandage starting at the toes or fingers and bandage up the limb as far as possible.
• Crepe and compression bandages are ideal – but use anything available if no bandages are available. E.g., tearing up a shirt, towel or sheet.
• Splint limb to prevent any muscle, limb or joint movement.
• Mark the bandaged area over the snake bite with an X. This will allow health professionals to quickly locate the bite without removing the bandage.
• If the bite is to the trunk or torso still apply a firm bandage.
• If the bite cannot be bandaged then apply and keep constant firm pressure.
• Keep still, remain calm and try not to panic. Movement and panicking will cause the venom to circulate faster.
• Activate your emergency plan to get help and medical assistance urgently
• If the snake bite victim collapses or stops breathing, apply CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) until medical help arrives.

Fast facts:

• Avoid being bitten by a snake.
• If bitten – don’t panic and don’t try to catch the snake.
• Follow basic first aid for a snake bite, even if you’re not sure if the snake was venomous.
• Don’t wash the skin, venom traces may help identify the snake.
• Send for help by calling triple (000) immediately.
• Remain still and calm until help arrives.
• Do not raise the limb.

Shock – physical

Medical shock is caused by not having enough blood circulating around your body. Reduced blood pressure decreases the flow of oxygen to vital organs and, unless attended to, is a life-threatening medical emergency.

Some of the many causes of medical shock include uncontrolled bleeding, severe burns, dehydration, being crushed under heavy objects, and spinal injury. A range of factors influences the impact of shock, such as your health, age, personality, where on the body the injury occurs and the environment. Signs of medical shock may include clammy skin, shallow or difficult breathing, rapid or irregular heartbeat, anxiety, thirst, dizziness, nausea and confusion.

Shock can be particularly life threatening on farms where you may be a long way from help or emergency medical facilities. It is very important that everyone on the farm knows where you are going to be and when you will return. If you are working on your own on a farm, arrange a system of notifying a family member, colleague or neighbour about where you will be and commit to checking in by a certain time each day. It is also important for everyone on the farm to have some first aid training. If someone suffers a major injury, you must send for help and then try to stop any bleeding or treat wounds and burns.

Emotional distress or sudden fright in response to a traumatic event is also often called ‘shock’ but this is different from physical shock. More information about emotional shock can be found here: Better Health Channel – Trauma reaction and recovery.

Fast facts:

• Medical shock is when there is not enough blood circulating around the body.
• Shock is potentially fatal, making it a medical emergency.
• If you think someone is suffering from medical shock, ring an ambulance immediately and give first aid.

Poisoning

Poisoning can occur when a person ingests, inhales or has skin contact with household, agricultural and industrial chemicals or gas. Not only are farmers and agricultural workers at risk but also children or children visiting farms. Poisoning to stock, (sheep, cattle) and domestic pets, can also occur when exposed to waste such as broken vehicle batteries, chemical containers, snail and other vermin baits and general rubbish.

Reduce the risk of accidental poisoning by:

• Reading the instructions carefully on how to store, apply and the safety precautions required before using chemicals
• Keep and maintain an up to date written register of chemical and hazardous substances on the farm
• Wear appropriate Australian Standard levels of personal protective equipment when using chemicals and make sure areas are well ventilated
• Lock all chemicals and used chemical containers in appropriate storage facilities and out of reach of children, stock and pets
• Dispose of waste such as vehicle/truck batteries, or sump oils at appropriate refuse and recycling stations
• Dispose of agricultural containers through Drum muster centres
• Used chemical or expired chemicals can go through Chem Clear or phone 1800 008 182
• Also remember to keep medications in a safe place away from children

If you think someone has been poisoned, or has an unexplained illness, do not wait for further symptoms to develop.

Ring the National Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26 immediately.

This is a 24 hour, 7 days a week service.

Do not try to make the person vomit, unless instructed to do so it may cause more injuries. Always call triple zero (000) in an emergency and have your address and location ready.

Fast facts:

• Farm chemicals, vehicle battery contents, solvents, cleaner, fumes and sprays can cause accidental poisoning.
• Poisoning may occur if chemicals are spilled on the skin, sprays are inhaled or splashed in the eyes or accidentally swallowed.
• If there’s a chance poisoning has occurred call the National Poison Information Hotline on 13 11 26
• If possible have name (and material data sheet) of the chemical the person has been exposed to.

First aid kits

First aid kits are essential on farms. Life on a farm comes with its own set of hazards and a first aid kit should be properly stocked and available at all times. It’s a good idea to keep a first aid kit in the home, car, ute, truck, shearing shed and workshop.

Well-stocked first aid kits should contain components to address: 

• Snake bites.
• Bleeding, wounds, lacerations and splinters. 
• Burns and scalds. 
• Stings and bites. 
• Eye injury. 
• Resuscitation. 
• Exposure to heat or cold. 
• Sprains, dislocations and fractures. 

Thes items will enable emergency care to be given to an injured family member or employee until medical assistance arrives. The isolation of many Australian farms means medical assistance may take time to arrive. Consequently, preserving life, preventing a condition from worsening and the promotion of recovery is more likely to occur with a well-stocked first aid kit.

Everyone living and working on a farm should know the location of all first aid kits and be trained in first aid; once a course is completed, refreshers are required every three years. To remain effective, first aid kits need to be maintained through regular component checks and used or expired stock replaced as soon as possible. 

For more information on first aid kits visit Better Health Channel.

Fast facts:

• First aid kits are an essential farm item.
• Ensure first aid kits are well stocked and comply with Australian standards.
• Keep several well-stocked kits around the farm.
• Ensure kit contents do not exceed the use-by date.
• Seek training in first aid and keep first aid knowledge and skills updated.

Eye injury – something in your eye? Don’t ignore it!

Eye injuries on the farm: What you need to know

Working on the land means you’re often exposed to dust, dirt, chemicals, metal, grain and machinery. All of these can lead to serious eye injuries, especially when you’re welding, grinding, fencing, spraying or working with animals. 

Between 2010 and 2015, agriculture, forestry and fishing were the second highest industry for work-related eye injuries in Australia. That’s a lot of farmers, fishers and forestry workers getting hurt on the job (AIHW, 2017). 

What is a foreign body in the eye? 

A foreign body is anything that gets into your eye and doesn’t belong there – like: 

• Wood chips, grain dust, or hay.
• Metal shavings from grinding.
• Insects, animal hair or wool fibres. 
• Sand, dirt or seeds. 
• Chemicals from spraying or cleaning.
• UV radiation from welding or long hours in the sun without protection. 

Even a tiny speck can cause big damage. Eyes are also highly vascular and will absorb chemicals into the bloodstream more rapidly than when splashed on the skin. 

Symptoms include pain, burning, irritation, a scratchy feeling, blurred vision, loss of vision, sensitivity to bright lights, bleeding into the white of the eye and a feeling that something’s still in it.  

What to do if you get something in your eye 

• DON’T rub it! It could scratch your eye or push the object in deeper. 
• Flush your eye straight away with clean water (from a tap, hose, or bottle) for at least 15 minutes. 
• If it doesn’t come out: 
  • Loosely cover the eye with a clean pad or cloth. 
  • Get medical help straight away – go to the GP, urgent care centre or clinic, or nearest Emergency Department. 

Do not try to remove the object yourself. You might make it worse. 

Complications with eye injuries

• Infection and scarring – if the foreign body is not removed from your eye, it may lead to infection and scarring. 
• Corneal scratches or abrasions – a foreign body may scratch the cornea, which is the clear membrane on the front of the eye. 
• Eye ulcer – sometimes a scratch on the cornea doesn’t heal and an eye (ulcer) may form in its place. This could affect your vision or lead to an abscess. 
• Penetrating eye injury – sometimes a projectile object (for example, a piece of metal from angle grinding) can pierce the eye and enter the eyeball, causing serious injury and even blindness. 

What causes eye injuries on farms? 

• Flying particles – metal, grain, wood chips, insects, hay. 
• Chemical splashes from spraying or cleaning. 
• Poor personal protective equipment (PPE) or no PPE.
• Rushing jobs, working tired, and not doing risk checks. 

Farm kids and eye safety 

Children on farms are often around workshops, machinery, animals and even chemicals. They may be helping or copying adults, or be nearby when you’re using tools and equipment. 

Eye injuries in kids can happen when: 

• Playing with sticks, wire, or tools. 
• Riding horses or motorbikes without eye protection. 
• Watching welding without a proper mask. 
• Getting chemicals in their eyes during cleaning or spraying or washing animals. 

When it comes to farm kids and eye safety, remember:

• Always keep chemicals and tools out of reach. 
• Make sure children wear sunglasses and safety glasses when appropriate. 
• Teach children not to rub their eyes and to tell an adult straight away if they hurt their eye. 

Prevention is better than a trip to emergency 

• Assess the job – is there a risk to your eyes?
• Eliminate or change the task if it’s too risky.
• Always wear Australian Standard safety glasses (with UV protection) and side protection.
• Use a proper welder’s mask when welding.
• Keep all PPE clean, dry and in good condition.
• Have your eyes checked every two years by an optometrist.
• Keep eyewash bottles handy in the shed and ute.

Find out more about this topic on Better Health Channel.

Fast facts:

• If you get something in your eye, don’t rub it as it may cause more damage. 
• Flush your eye out with clean water or eyewash for 15 minutes. 
• If it doesn’t come out, cover the eye with a loose pad and get medical help.
• Do NOT try to remove it yourself. 
• Act fast – this can save your sight.