LAUSR

ABSTRACT Purpose: Young workers in agriculture (under 25-years-old) are at increased risk for occupational injuries. In addition to traditional workplace hazards, fatigue, substance use, and distracted behaviors are risk factors for injury. While supervisors can play an active role in protecting young workers, there are currently no interventions targeting this group. An online training for supervisors was developed using a Total Worker Health™ framework. The training was evaluated among those who hire, teach, or supervise young agricultural workers. Methods: People who hire, teach, or supervise young workers were invited to participate in the online training and research study via email, conference handout, or word-of-mouth. Participants were asked to complete a 1-hour training and surveys at baseline, directly following the training, and 3 months after the training. Demographics, workplace factors, and knowledge of training topics were assessed at all three time points. Results/Findings: To date, 102 participants completed the training and 3-month follow up, representing 22 states and 2 U.S. territories. Over half (58%) were agricultural educators; the remainder were farmers/producers, agricultural supervisors, and health and safety professionals. Two-thirds (69%) had supervised young workers for 5 or more years. Knowledge scores were high, and at the conclusion of the study, over half (61%) of participants indicated they would definitely recommend the training to others. When asked to indicate how the training most helped them, 29% of participants cited using a method of training young workers called “Teach Back.” Practical Application: The majority of participants would recommend the training to others and found training contents applicable to their work. All training materials are available for use in online and classroom-based formats. The training is available in Spanish and English.