An evidence-consultation base for developing child injury prevention priorities for Australian farms

Abstract

Issue addressed: Child injury on farms is a significant public health problem. This article describes the evidence and consultation base for development of a national strategy for child safety on farms in Australia.

Methods: A data profile describing farm child injury was compiled, with evidence for the effectiveness of solutions being defined and the strength of recommendations determined. Representative working groups played a key role in assessing the evidence and advising on the best ways to communicate prevention messages within the farming community.

Results: The main risks identified were drowning; farm vehicle and machinery injury; and injury associated with motorbikes and horses. Prevention recommendations were: (1) creating effective safe play areas on farms; (2) use of seatbelts/restraints in farm vehicles, (3) prevention of children riding as passengers on tractors, ATVs or the back of utilities; and (4) use of helmets when riding horses and motorbikes.

Conclusions: Evidence on key injury risks and solutions has been a cornerstone to set the agenda for child safety on farms. An evidence-consultation base has achieved credibility with potential partners at all levels for adopting priority child safety messages.