If you're in Australia, the cotton season has kicked off and you're just about to start planting. Usually, cotton is sown in spring, grows in summer, and is then harvested or picked in Autumn. The planting season for cotton comes with its own set of risks and challenges. Hazards can include exposure to harmful chemicals, physical strain from manual labor, and potential injuries from equipment and machinery.
Even though Australia doesn't produce a ton of cotton compared to the rest of the world, it's still a big deal when it comes to exporting the commodity abroad. In a great year, Australia usually lands in the middle to top six spots as an exporter. With cotton mainly grown in New South Wales and Queensland, it is estimated that the industry employs over 12,000 people across 1,500 cotton farms.
Whether you’re picking or planting, as a cotton grower you rely on your workers to keep themselves safe. Given they are utilising sophisticated, and often heavy, machinery on a daily basis, workers face various dangers that may cause harm or even result in loss of life.
According to Australian Cotton, the industry has reported an almost even split between what it calls short-term (0-4 days) and more serious (over 5 days) workers' compensation claims on average over a year. Over the past five years, the number of serious claims has nearly doubled, reaching almost 50 annually.
Between 2019 and July 2024, farming was one of the most dangerous industries, reporting an average of 55 fatalities each year in Australia. From July 2019 to June 2023, the cotton industry recorded 5 fatalities on farm.
Machinery and Equipment
The risks associated with machinery in cotton farming are significant. Cotton growers often operate heavy machinery and equipment that can pose dangers if not operated correctly. Operators must be trained to recognize and mitigate these dangers to prevent accidents and injuries. Regular maintenance and safety checks are vital components of a safe farming operation. Addressing machinery hazards in cotton farming not only protects workers but also enhances productivity.
Various types of machinery are utilised in cotton farming, including tractors, harvesters, and planting equipment. Each piece of equipment serves a specific purpose, helping to streamline tasks from planting to harvesting. There are a number of hazards a worker could be exposed to in a single day;
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entanglement - think of belts over pulleys, meshing gears, exposed shafts or rotating machine parts
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crush injury - clearing blockages or during picker servicing
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Collision with other farm vehicles and machinery
It's important to implement effective guarding for exposed areas on cotton pickers, safeguarding both operators and those nearby from potential hazards. Regular servicing and upkeep of machinery can significantly lower the chances of mechanical failures and related incidents.
Chemicals and Dust
Cotton farming often involves the use of various chemical substances that can pose significant hazards. These chemicals, including pesticides and fertilizers, are essential for managing pests and enhancing crop yields but can also have detrimental effects on the environment and human health.
The application of these chemicals can lead to soil and water contamination, affecting not only the cotton plants but also surrounding ecosystems. Cotton farmers and workers may be exposed to harmful substances, raising concerns about safety and long-term health risks associated with chemical exposure.
Cotton fibers, along with organic dust and airborne particles, can significantly impact air quality. These materials often circulate in the environment, contributing to allergens and irritants that may affect respiratory health.
Exposure to cotton dust can lead to various reactions, such as a runny nose and watery eyes, along with itchiness in the eyes, nose, and throat. One common response is inflammation of the airways, which can cause further complications and discomfort. In some cases, exposure may trigger asthma symptoms.
Cabins equipped with air filtration systems will reduce the likelihood of health issues caused by breathing in dust and fumes. Ensuring the availability of suitable protective gear is essential for safeguarding workers from potential cotton dust hazards. In addition, when cleaning cotton pickers it's important to wear respiratory protection if there's a chance of exposure to cotton dust.
Slips, trips and falls
Slips, trips, and falls are common hazards in cotton farming. These incidents can occur due to uneven terrain, wet conditions, or objects in the field. It's essential for farmers to be aware of their surroundings to minimise these risks. Ensuring safety measures are in place can help mitigate the risks associated with falls during maintenance or cleaning activities.
To prevent such incidents, proper footwear and equipment can make a significant difference. Additionally, maintaining clear pathways and ensuring that work areas are well-organised can help reduce the likelihood of falls. Consider installing skid-resistant materials on stairs, platforms, and foot pedals to enhance safety. Make sure that handrails and handles are available and well-maintained.
Proper lighting enhances the visibility of both the picker’s steps and the ground, which is crucial during cotton harvesting. When working at night, having adequate illumination is essential to ensure safety. Refrain from jumping off machinery; ensure you have three points of contact while climbing up or down steps and ladders.
Electricity
Electrical risks and cotton farming are interconnected issues that require careful attention. Cotton growers often use various electrical equipment for irrigation and processing, which can pose safety challenges if not managed properly. Cotton farmers also run the risk of electrocution. It's important for workers on your farm to be aware of the dangers associated with working near these powerlines, as they can lead to serious accidents. For example, the picker operator may face electrocution risks when raising baskets close to overhead powerlines. Surviving an electric shock is rare, and even if you do, you'll likely suffer severe and lasting injuries.
Check how tall powerlines are compared to machines. Make sure there are safe paths for machines, and everyone using them knows about them. Farm maps show environmental risks like structures, dams and powerlines. These farm maps or hazard maps are essential and should be available to workers operating machinery. Don’t forget your minimum exclusion zones.
Environmental Factors
Another significant hazard is the risk of heat-related illnesses, as workers often labor in hot and humid conditions. This can lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion, or even heat stroke if adequate breaks and hydration are not provided.
Excessive sun exposure can lead to sunburn, which increases the risk of developing skin cancer, the most common type in Australia. As well as too much sun leading to eye discomfort, swelling, and trouble seeing. Prolonged exposure to the sun can lead to several long-lasting issues, including early signs of skin aging, eye cataracts, and the development of keratoses, commonly known as "sun spots."
Protecting workers from sun exposure is important, so make sure they have access to sunscreen and sunglasses. To ensure safety and comfort, workers should opt for long pants, reliable work boots, a lightweight long-sleeve shirt, and a hat with a wide brim.
It's important to be aware of noise levels to protect hearing health and ensure a safer working environment for everyone involved. Hearing loss caused by noise can greatly affect a persons overall health and happiness. Hearing loss can also lead to a higher risk of injury due to the inability to hear signals, a loss of concentration, increased fatigue, and stress. Cut down on noise by changing out ineffective mufflers and other related exhaust elements. It's important to wear earmuffs or plugs when needed to safeguard your hearing.
Where is the industry going?
The cotton industry significantly contributes to the Australian economy, generating over $3 billion annually in export earnings. This highlights its vital role in international trade and economic growth. As well as contributing between 30% to 60% of the gross value of production in the regions where it is cultivated.
Australian cotton exports reached an impressive $4.2 billion in the 2022-23 period, highlighting the industry's significant contribution with a total of 1.28 million tonnes exported. This remarkable performance underscores the strength and competitiveness of Australia's cotton sector on the global market.
Topics: Keep Safe around Grain
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