This article was written by Jason Oliver from Cornell College of Agriculture and Life Science and originally published by Manure Manager Magazine and is shared here with the author and editor's permissions.

We all recognize that farming is one of the most dangerous industries. It does not have to be.

While the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics routinely ranks agricultural workers in the top 10 for both occupational injury and fatality rates, there are many things we can do to ensure our businesses thrive while our farm families and employees stay safe.

It starts by creating a culture of safety. Think of a highly reliable organization, such as a U.S. aircraft carrier, that must operate in high-hazard and constantly changing environments under significant production pressures.

To ensure aircraft successfully takeoff and landing every minute or less for extended periods of time serious incidents and catastrophic failures cannot be afforded. In fact, according to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, since 2010, there have only been three years where there were more than 20 serious injuries, and any fatalities reported on these vessels. The Navy has been able to achieve this by adopting a culture of safety where all personnel regardless of rank and position consistently train for and prioritize safety and have both the authority and the responsibility to make changes that ensure safe operations.

We can similarly prioritize safe and accident-free agricultural enterprises, particularly around manure, not only to improve production but also to show your team that they and their safety are valuable.

The Hierarchy of Controls is a safety concept that helps one identify risks and rank safeguards to protect workers. Arranged from most effective to least effective they are, with examples.

Elimination makes sure the hazard no longer exists.

• Decommission a below-barn manure storage.

Substitution changes out materials or processes to reduce the hazard.

• Purchasing a manure tanker equipped with adequate safety features to replace outdated equipment.

Engineering controls reduce exposure by separating the hazard from the worker.

• Fences around manure storages, PTO guards, grates over confined spaces

Administrative controls include better informing the worker and changing the way the work is done with standard procedures, trainings or warmings.

• Safety trainings, signage warning of manure gases, preventive maintenance

Personal protective equipment (PPE) includes clothing and devices to protect workers.

• Safety glasses, high-visibility clothing, calibrated personal gas meters

Use the Hierarchy to improve safety

Work through one hazard at a time, prioritizing the most substantial. Discuss all possible effective controls. While all are not always feasible, stacking other controls (engineering controls, protocols and PPE) is often necessary.

Though it may take time to implement the most effective controls, you should invest in interim controls until permanent solutions can be achieved. Consider reaching out to your advisors, safety professionals, agency personal, and consultants for resources and help. Work collaboratively to help our industry cultivate a culture of safety.