Ohio On-farm Grain Storage Facilities Management and Farmers’ Behaviors about Agricultural Safety and Health

Abstract. Hazards associated with agricultural confined spaces are a contributing factor to agricultural injuries. This research project was designed to bridge the gap between what is currently known about the risks that exist on Ohio‘s farms, specifically in the cash grain industry, and how safety and health information is conveyed to the workforce. Using a 4-part questionnaire, cash grain operators were surveyed to determine the type of storage and drying facilities used on their farms, the presence of moldy and out-of-condition grain, and the health and safety factors practiced around their facilities. The data was analyzed to explore any relationships between these factors. Information will be used to design future studies and improve management practices to reduce hazards at grain storage facilities.