Risk Assessment of Backyard Injuries in Farm-Workers - Health and Safety Implications in Agricultural Settings in Cluj County, Romania

Background: Worldwide, agriculture ranks among the most hazardous occupations with a high risk for fatal and nonfatal injuries. A safe environment remains a key concern for all individuals engaged in agricultural activities. In Romania usually, all members of the family are involved in farm-work, being exposed to farming related injuries. Moreover, backyard farm injuries are not considered an important health issue; therefore data regarding farm injury incidence and health and safety implications are scarce. Methods: This project assessed the burden of farm injuries and the major safety risk factors on backyard farms. The study involved an exploratory observational mixed method in order to see the major household safety problems and determine the related health consequences among 150 backyard family farms in Cluj County. Collected data encompassed information on injury occurrence and household safety conditions (lack of handrails, paved walkways, and stairs). Results: Elderly are the most susceptible group of the population for farm related injuries. 61% of the respondents have no handrails around their homes and 43% don't have paved walkways. 73% of the most common injuries were due to falling and stumbling. Most individuals suffered foot (33.30%), and hand injuries (29.60%), and more than 25% of the injuries occurred near sheds, and stairs. Conclusions: The accurate evaluation of the causes and consequences of backyard farm injuries is a necessary prerequisite for any future intervention programs, allowing the building of safer homes and surroundings in farm environments that will contribute to the reduction of rural injuries.