Noise-induced hearing loss in agriculture: creating partnerships to overcome barriers and educate the community on prevention.

Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is a common and preventable injury for farmers. Farmers are frequently exposed to excessive noise, ranking among the top three occupations and industries with the highest risk for hearing loss. Use of hearing protection among farmers is not common.

Evaluation of a four year intervention to reduce musculoskeletal hazards among berry growers.

Problem: Fresh market berry production workers are exposed to physical risk factors for musculoskeletal injury.

Method: We disseminated information through trade publications and other sources to berry managers in seven U.S.

Evaluation of an intervention to reduce musculoskeletal hazards among fresh market vegetable growers.

Objectives: We conducted an intervention to convince small, fresh market vegetable operations to adopt mesh bags and standard containers, two production practices that aid in crop handling and that are known to improve labor efficiency and reduce exposures to musculoskeletal injury hazards.

Methods: The intervention disseminated information about the practices to growers through trade publications, public events, university Extension, and growers already using the practices. A mail questionnaire was administered to vegetable growers (n=243 and 207) before and after the intervention.