Tractor rollovers remain a leading cause of deaths on farms in Iowa and nationwide. Data from the New York Center for Agricultural Medicine and Health shows Iowa leads the nation in tractor overturn deaths, accounting for 12% of all rollover deaths. The consequences of a rollover can be dire for both the farmer and the farm. One in 7 operators involved in a rollover is permanently disabled and seventy percent of farms that lose a farmer to a tractor overturn go out of business within five years. The death of a farm operator also has ripple effects in the local community, and at the state level. A recent report from Decision Innovations Solutions details the economic impacts of a rollover fatality.
Click here for more information about the costs of agricultural injuries.
However, when used correctly with a seat belt, ROPS are 99% effective in preventing injury or death in the case of a roll- over. The protective frame of the ROPS stops the operator from being crushed, and the seat belt keeps the operator from being thrown from the tractor.
Iowa’s Center for Agricultural Safety and Health (I-CASH) has a limited amount of funds to partner with the National ROPS Rebate Program, based Cooperstown, NY. The program funds about 70% of the cost of purchase and installation, with an out of pocket maximum cost of $500 for the farmer. Those who work with the hotline receive guidance on the program and where to find a ROPS for their tractor. After final receipts and proof of installation are submitted, the farmer receives the rebate by direct deposit.
Visit www.ropsr4u.org or call 1-877-767-7748 for more information about the ROPS Rebate Program.
Download a brochure about the ROPS Rebate Program.
An International 1466 tractor in Plymouth County, Iowa, before and after ROPS installation. In addition to the ROPS, the owner added a canopy and steps with a hand rail.
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