Why does the State Labor Service conduct targeted information events specifically in the agro-industrial complex?
The agricultural sector is one of the most injury-prone sectors of the economy
Ukraine's agro-industrial complex is a key sector of the economy, ranking second after industrial production and providing a significant portion of exports. However, agriculture is also one of the most injury-prone sectors.
According to the International Labor Organization, more than 170,000 agricultural workers die each year worldwide. In Ukraine, 1,902 people have been injured in this sector over the past five years, 301 of them fatally.
Another critical issue is the high share of informal employment. According to the latest available data from the State Statistics Service (2021), 46.31% of the informally employed population works in agriculture. Undeclared work does not involve compliance with safety standards, and therefore the real number of accidents may be much higher.
Main dangers for agricultural workers
Work in the agro-industrial complex is associated with a number of threats to the health and life of workers.
• Injuries while working with machinery and mechanisms – using tractors, combines, seed drills, and other equipment without proper training and protective equipment leads to serious injuries.
• Chemical exposure – workers are often exposed to pesticides, fertilizers, and other agrochemicals, which can cause serious poisoning and chronic diseases.
• Overwork and stress – long working hours, seasonal workloads, and insufficient rest increase the risk of accidents.
• Undeclared work – lack of employment guarantees means lack of accident insurance and social protection.
That is why the State Labor Service is launching targeted information activities, within the framework of which:
• recommendations are provided on identifying hazards and occupational risks;
• priority measures for collective and individual protection of workers are explained;
• consultations are held on compliance with labor and occupational health and safety legislation.
What can every employee do today?
• Read the recommendations of the State Labor Service - more information about occupational safety is available on the information portal https://www.pratsia.in.ua/
• Make sure that safety standards are followed at work – pay attention to the availability of personal protective equipment, the serviceability of equipment, and the correct use of chemicals.
• Report a violation – if your rights are violated or your work poses a health threat, contact the State Labor Service.
Safe and declared work is your healthy and stable future!