It is a privilege to write for this edition of the AgriSafe Newsletter. I'm a farmer from Indiana who is honored to serve as Chair of the Board of Directors for AgriSafe.

 

Earlier today, I spent time cleaning out storage bins as we wind down the summer grain hauling and prepare our facilities for a new crop. The entire time I was inside of the bin, huffing and puffing while sweeping and shoveling in the heat and humidity, I couldn't help but be reminded by how special it felt to know that so many people at AgriSafe were working to keep people just like me safe and well educated concerning my health.

 

AgriSafe has made tremendous progress fulfilling the mission of educating and sharing health and safety information with the agricultural community. I think it's appropriate to take a moment to thank AgriSafe staff, and the many board members and contributors for their passionate work. Over the next few months as we continue to grow the scope and reach of AgriSafe we must not forget that our organization is made up of amazing people. I'd like to personally thank everyone for their passionate work and contributions towards this cause. As a farmer who works hard, long hours - it's a special feeling to know there are so many people who wake up each day fighting to keep me safe and well informed!

AgriSafe welcomes Southeastern University's College of Nursing and Health Sciences as our newest state affiliate and the first member from the Southern Region of the United States. 

Agromedicine Core Course Training

During June 13-17, The University of Iowa  hosted a training course"  Iowa Agricultural Medicine: Occupational and Environmental Health for Rural Health"  in Iowa City, IA. 

As the Clinical Director of AgriSafe Network, my role was to focus on integrating the information learned in this extensive course into existing health services.   During this training session, participants were provided with a  demonstration of personal protective equipment, and a review of AgriSafe online resources including our agricultural online health risk assessment (AgHRA).   Participatory learning through the use of case studies created an interactive learning environment.  

Learn more about how to attend an upcoming AgroMedicine Core Course.

To host an AgriSafe approved agromedicine training please feel free to contact me.

Carolyn Sheridan , RN, BSN

 

Tuesday, August 23, 2016 - 12:00 pm -1:00 pm CDT

Cost: $30.00 (free with AgriSafe member coupon)

Wednesday, August 24, 2016 - 12:00 pm -1:00 pm CDT

Health Disparities of Immigrant Workers in Agriculture

Presenter: Marc Schenker, MD, MPH,  University of California at Davis

Cost: Free and open to the public

Monday, September 19, 2016 - 12:00 pm -1:00 pm CDT

Respiratory Protection for Agricultural Producers 

Presenter: Carolyn Sheridan, RN, BSN, AgriSafe Network 

Cost: Free and open to the public 

 

Zika virus is primarily spread through the bites of infected mosquitoes. Mosquitoes can become infected when they bite infected persons and can then spread the Zika virus to other persons they subsequently bite.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) are monitoring the Zika virus outbreak spreading through Central and South America, Mexico, and parts of the Caribbean, including U.S. territories. For the most up-to-date information, check the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Zika website frequently.

The OSHA interim guidance provides employers and workers with information and guidance on preventing occupational exposure to the Zika virus. This guide contains specific information for outdoor risks and steps to prevent Zika infection.  To access this guide click here.