safety

This course is targeted towards youth between the ages of 14 and 16 years of age. Younger persons may take the course but will not receive the certificate which allows them to drive an agricultural tractor of more than 20 horsepower, conduct designated hazardous work activities or operate designated hazardous agricultural machinery.

Up to seven programs are presented each year, with a consistent curriculum. The U.S. Department of Labor Certificate of Training is awarded to students who score successfully on a written test, driving test and demonstrate a safety attitude.

The programs are coordinated by county extension staff and/or comparable other safety oriented individuals. The programs are offered across the state, some in consistent locations and others located randomly from year to year. Up to 30 students are enrolled for each program.

The curriculum consists of activities and textbook work in a classroom situation with "Safe Operation of Agricultural Equipment" by Silletto and Hull, Hobar Publications, 1988, 2nd revision as the primary text. Various videotapes are used to support and accentuate the text material.

Considerable instruction is given towards safety and maintenance inspections of tractors and agricultural machinery. Behind the wheel driving of a agricultural tractor with more than 20 horsepower is also included. Various driving courses and activities are part of the behind the wheel activities. Support mini-courses consisting of first-aid, protective clothing and equipment, and health maintenance are included.

Quizzes, a comprehensive, written final test, and practical, behind the wheel test are used to determine successful completion of the program. It is not a program where everyone passes, regardless of success.

A major effort is being undertaken to determine the effectiveness of the program in the reduction of injuries to youth as compared to youth not exposed to such training.

AGRABILITY IN DAKOTA

AgrAbility in Dakota assists North Dakota residents with disabilities who engage in agriculture farming, ranching and related occupations. AgrAbility in Dakota also assists their families, in safely accommodating disabilities in agriculture and rural living.

We accomplish this by promoting statewide issues relating to agriculture despite the presence of disabilities. We provide direct and specialized education and technological programs to farm families and rural professionals, allowing a disabled individual to continue farming. We provide technical advice concerning the design, fabrications and use of agricultural related equipment and modification and living arrangement for farmers with disabilities.

The project creates an informational and referral system comprised of agricultural and health care professionals, rehabilitation counselors and others who are committed to identifying farmers and farm families affected by disabilities. An AgrAbility in Dakota resource library is maintained to enhance the effectiveness of education and assistance for farmers with disabilities throughout the state.

This page is property of the NDSU Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering Department.
Last Modified on August 20, 2003