Occupational Injury Prevention Knowledge and Behavior of African-American Farmers

Abstract

This study uses data from in-depth and focus group interviews conducted with African-American farmers residing in four southern states (Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, Tennessee) to discuss the occupational prevention knowledge and behaviors found among these farmers, and to identify the major occupational health risks of which they are not aware. These African-American farmers have substantial knowledge about occupational injury prevention. Prevention knowledge and behaviors among these farmers are organized into several themes, including general prevention behaviors, and specific actions related to machinery, chemicals and livestock. Significant gaps also remain in their prevention knowledge in the operation of equipment, precautions needed in working with animals, and avoiding hazards in the built and natural environments. These farmers acknowledge disregarding some safety rules. They have not implemented some preventive procedures because they do not want to change old habits or because they cannot pay for new equipment.