Risk factors and children injuries while performing agricultural work in the Požega-Slavonia County

Abstract

Numerous health problems and injuries are connected with performing agricultural work. Children working on family estates perform various agricultural tasks that expose them to many hazards and health risks, which may eventually cause injuries. The aim of this study was to determine current health and safety conditions of children who live and work in farm households in Požega-Slavonia County and to detect hazards that occur while performing agricultural work, in order to introduce specifi c health and safety measures that could help in health protection, as well as in eliminating and reducing injuries. Data on agricultural activities performed by children, most common injuries and use of protective equipment were collected through a questionnaire. The study was conducted from September 2011 until May 2012. It showed 52.1% of 188 children followed to perform various agricultural activities on daily basis. While performing agricultural work, 30.6% of respondents suff ered injuries characterized as minor and severe. The greatest number of injuries was caused by mechanical force while working with agricultural machinery, various hand tools and during work with animals. In conclusion, safety measures and regulations do not apply to children who are members of agricultural households. The existing legislative cannot regulate this problem because children are not offi cially employed. The presented data on these children’s health condition point to the need of expanding the study to the health status of children in rural areas of Croatia, the impact of agricultural work on the occurrence of injuries and illness, as well as assessment and adoption of safety and health measures in order to ensure safer working environment and protection of their health.