An evidence-consultation base for developing child injury prevention priorities for Australian farms
Laurence Stiller, Julie Depczynski, Lyn Fragar and Richard Franklin

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.

Keywords: Farm child safety, injury prevention, evidence

So what?

Responding to community concerns and establishing a strong evidence base, led to the development of a tightly focused strategy. This proved a successful formula for gaining the support of stakeholders and distribution networks in promoting credible and effective child safety on farms actions within the wider farming community.

Health Promotion Journal of Australia 2008; 19:91-6