Fatal Incidents in Australia's Older Farmers (2001-2015).

OBJECTIVES: This study assesses nonintentional injury deaths of older farmers and the causal agents associated with these fatalities in Australia (2001-2015). It also explores approaches based on the hierarchy of risk controls to reduce fatalities and injuries in this cohort.

METHODS: Data on farm-related incidents were sourced from the National Coroners Information System (NCIS) for the study period and coded. Rates were calculated and regression analyses completed to assess trends over time.

RESULTS: Those in the 50+ years category (n = 610) accounted for 49.8% of all on-farm nonintentional injury deaths, with males (n = 566) dominating the cases. The annual mean was 40.66 cases (SD = 8.08) and the average rate 36/100,000. Trend analysis revealed a nonstatistically significant (P < 0.05) increase in cases over the period. Farm vehicles and machinery were responsible for almost two thirds of the fatal cases.

CONCLUSION: Nonintentional fatality rates for older farmers have remained relatively unchanged for a significant period in Australia. There is a need to examine additional approaches that not only maintain the benefits of work activity for older farmers but also balance this against a safety perspective.