Engaging with farmers during Canadian Agricultural Safety Week

Canadians depend on farmers. They keep us fed. They are stewards of our rich agricultural lands. But farm work can be hazardous—especially when farms are located along or near railway tracks.

In April 2014, a 15-year-old boy (at the time) was airlifted to hospital with serious injuries after he was hit by a train while driving a tractor across tracks near Chilliwack, B.C. Another teen had been riding on the tractor with him, but was able to jump off before the collision.

Most such incidents can be prevented—if people learn the steps to take to stay safe near tracks and trains.

Staying safe means knowing the rail safety rules

To mark Canadian Agricultural Safety Week, Operation Lifesaver wants to encourage farmers, farm families and farm workers to make sure they know how to stay safe when working near railway tracks. Because everyone has a role to play in rail safety.

Some rail crossings on or near farmlands don’t have gates, lights, or bells to warn of approaching trains. So people in these areas need to be extra vigilant to avoid serious injury and save lives.
 
Trains can arrive from any direction at any time. Operation Lifesaver’s Train to Drive virtual-reality video is designed specifically to test whether farmers and other agricultural workers know how to safely approach these railway crossings and respond to other dangerous situations.
 
If you work on a farm, head to OL’s website and put your rail safety knowledge to the test. You’ll also find other helpful resources such as a tip sheet for agricultural workers. It only takes a few minutes to ensure you know the rail safety rules—but it could save your life!