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Evaluation of Tractor Pedal Extensions for Farmers with Disabilities

Published by the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers, St. Joseph, Michigan www.asabe.org

Citation:  Paper number  RRV07123,  ASABE/CSBE North Central Intersectional Meeting. (doi: 10.13031/2013.24176) @2007
Authors:   Alexia M Stangherlin, Danny D Mann
Keywords:   Assistive technologies, mechanical pedal extensions, farmers with disabilities

Agriculture is a hazardous occupation with a high incidence of injuries and fatalities. Often, such injuries result in permanent disabilities to farmers. For farmers with a disability to their lower limbs, a common task like driving a tractor may be difficult or impossible. A mechanical pedal extension is a simple assistive technology that has been used to enable the foot pedals to be controlled by hand movements. In effect, pedal extensions can enable an individual to re-enter the workforce following a disabling accident. However, it is important to ensure the safety of these individuals in their modified work environment. This study was underpinned by the social barriers model of disability and therefore views assistive technologies as devices used to rehabilitate the workplace, not the disabled worker.The objective of this research was to evaluate tractor pedal extensions from a safety perspective.

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