Aim: To describe the pattern of nonintentional farm-related fatalities in Australia for [2003][2004][2005][2006] and examine trends. Methods: Data from the National Coroners Information System were analysed to define all non-intentional farm injury fatalities for the period. Results: The incidence of farm fatalities has declined by 44% over the past 20 years from an average of 146 deaths per year to 82 deaths per year. For adults there are high numbers of fatalities related to tractors, quad bikes and farm utilities. Children aged under 15 years account for 17% of fatalities, with dams or other water bodies and quad bikes remaining the most common causes of non-intentional farm fatalities. Almost half of all on-farm non-intentional fatalities are non-work-related. Conclusion: Future interventions targeting these priority areas are required to reduce the incidence of non-intentional farm-related fatalities within Australia.
Quad bikes are imposing a significant injury burden in Victoria. Fatalities are frequent, while the number of admissions, often serious, increased over the study period. Children were involved across all levels of severity. A range of prevention approaches, such as mandatory fitting of crush protection devices to protect riders in the event of a roll over, are required.
This study illustrates a need across rural NSW to further promote, install or upgrade secure fenced house yards or safe play areas. While all geographic regions of the state could improve provision to protect children, there may also be some that are in need of more intensive intervention programs to enhance compliance. Such a proposition may also be relevant on a national level.
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