COLUMBUS, Ohio — Safety is a top priority for growers of all sizes as the summer season approaches.

What You Need To Know

  • Equipment safety is a major priority for farmers
  • Poison hemlock can be toxic when ingested 
  • Each week, Spectrum News 1 anchor Chuck Ringwalt and agriculture expert Andy Vance discuss an aspect of the state's agricultural landscape

"We want to be really mindful of handling large equipment," Agriculture Expert Andy Vance said.

One study at Penn State University cites agriculture as the most dangerous industry.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, since 2012 there have been 1,542 deadly injuries to agricultural workers.

Meanwhile, the Ohio State University Extension said everyone should be aware of hazardous plants, including poison hemlock.

"[Poison hemlock] is one of the most deadly plants on the planet," Mike Hogan said.

Hogan is an educator with the Ohio State University Extension in Franklin County.

The plant must be ingested in order to be poisonous.

"Contact herbicides are the best way to control this plant," Hogan said.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture offers safety training for farmers.

If you have an idea for the Ag Report, a question for Chuck and Andy or you’d like to send a photo of your farm and the work you do, email charles.ringwalt@charter.com.

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