Farm Safety and Health Week, September 21-27

An interview with Dr. Tyler Faber, DO, Family Medicine, Obstetrics, Emergency Medicine

Q. Doctor Faber, you come from a farming background, and still actively farm, correct? Tell us a little about your farming experience.

A: Yes, I grew up and have spent most of my life working with livestock. My family and I manage a 100–120 head cow-calf operation, and I continue to help on the farm regularly. As a kid, I spent most of my free time working with our livestock and showed cattle at both the state and national level. I’m hopeful that when my children are old enough, they’ll continue this family tradition. Farming has always been a central part of my life—not just through our livestock operation, but also through my extended family. Both sets of grandparents were active crop farmers, and many of my relatives on both sides are still involved in agriculture today.

Q. September 21-27 is National Farm Safety and Health Week. The 2022 data for the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that the agricultural sector is still the most dangerous in America with 417 fatalities. Fall harvest time can be one of the busiest and most dangerous seasons of the year for the agriculture industry. As a physician practicing medicine in a very rural area, serving farm families, what kinds of health and safety concerns do you encounter, especially this time of year?

A. There are a multitude of health and safety concerns in agriculture due to the wide range of physically demanding tasks farmers face daily. From handling 1,400+ lb. cattle and operating large machinery to climbing grain bins, performing electrical work, or grinding feed—each task comes with its own unique risks. This time of year, harvest poses the greatest threat. The dangers range from injuries during equipment prep and cleaning, to motor vehicle accidents involving large machinery on busy roads, to the physical toll of long hours in the field—especially for those with chronic health conditions. During fall harvest, many farmers prioritize the job at hand over their own health, often delaying care due to the pressure to make the most of a short harvest window. Mental health is a growing concern in rural and agricultural communities, especially during high-stress seasons like harvest.

Q. Are there specific concerns among certain groups? For instance, kids? Or people working with livestock or on dairy farms? Those harvesting crops? Weather-related concerns?

A: My first instinct is always to think about livestock, given my background. Every year, it seems the farming community has someone seriously injured by livestock—often some of the most experienced stockmen around. Even the calmest animals can be spooked and behave unpredictably.

Children raised in agriculture often have more responsibilities at a younger age, along with more freedom to explore in less supervised environments. Unfortunately, ATV accidents are one of the most common causes of serious injury I see in the ER—whether due to rollovers or being struck on the road.

Harvest season also brings an uptick in injuries from large equipment. PTO shafts are a particular concern due to the dangers they present when working around them. Dust exposure is another frequent issue, especially with crop farming and feeding livestock. I often reference “farmer’s lung,” or hypersensitivity pneumonitis, in the clinic. Many of my farming patients suffer from chronic respiratory issues despite never smoking and living otherwise healthy lives.

Weather is another major factor this time of year. Those working in agriculture don’t have the luxury of calling off due to extreme heat or cold, putting them at greater risk for conditions like heat stroke or frostbite. In the winter months, carbon monoxide exposure becomes a concern, especially in older facilities with outdated heating systems and poor ventilation.

Q: How are these issues addressed, treated, or even prevented?

A: When working with livestock, it’s essential to maintain a healthy respect for what they’re capable of at any moment. Always have an exit strategy and continuously assess how you’re sorting or handling the animals. Having the right equipment—and adequate help—is also critical for staying safe.

In the case of ATVs, it’s important to ensure that children are mature enough to operate them responsibly. They should understand and follow proper safety measures, wear appropriate protective gear, and know their boundaries for where the equipment can be used. It’s also a good practice to keep keys out of reach when younger children are nearby. When kids are around livestock, especially larger animals, close supervision is key.

For farmer’s lung, treatment is typically limited to steroids and antibiotics during flare-ups. Prevention is the best approach—wearing appropriate respiratory protection during exposure to dust or small particulates can significantly reduce the risk.

Q: What advice do you give farmers—and their families—to help them stay as healthy and safe as possible?

A: Great question. Health and safety on the farm starts with prevention. Always respect machinery, livestock, and the weather—and be mindful of the risks you’re taking. Try to avoid working alone when possible, or have a system in place for someone to check in on you regularly. Make sure equipment is well-lit and marked with reflective tape, especially during harvest season or when operating on public roads.

Just as important: don’t neglect your health. Make time for routine checkups, even during busy seasons. Early detection of conditions like heart disease can make a big difference and may keep you in the field rather than in the hospital. No farmer wants to be taken away from their work—and prioritizing your health is one of the best ways to ensure you can continue farming for as long as you choose.

It’s also important to recognize the mental strain that comes with farming—long hours, financial pressure, and isolation can take a toll. I encourage farmers and their families to check in on one another, talk openly about stress, and seek support when needed. Mental health is just as important as physical health when it comes to staying safe and sustainable on the farm.

Taking the time to invest in your health and safety isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s a sign of strength and commitment to your family, your farm, and your future.

Dr. Faber serves in Family Medicine, Prenatal and Birth Care, and Emergency Services