Many Pittsburgh residents likely think about farming as a peaceful, meditative occupation. That is far from the truth however. As it happens, individuals who work in this occupation routinely lose their lives. According to a study recently released by the Center for Progressive Reform, throughout the nation, an average of one worker dies each day.

There are many things that could cause this to happen to field workers. As is the case for anyone working outside in the summer, the heat can be an issue. In addition, rough terrain can cause a worker to easily trip and fall. Other issues more exclusive to farming such as electrocution due to irrigation equipment and becoming caught in silos can quickly claim workers' lives.

It may be able to take legal action when someone becomes ill, injured or dies on-the-job. This can be particularly helpful when a worker is too ill or injured to work and does not have any money coming in. This is accomplished via a workers' compensation claim. Likewise, it may be possible for the family of a worker who dies to obtain compensation via a wrongful death lawsuit to make it easier to maintain the life that they had.

Things are actually not as bad as they once were in the farming industry. Prior to the creation of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, over 40 years ago, it was much more common for workers to become injured, ill or to die due to a workplace situation. Despite the safety guidelines it creates and the inspections it performs, there is clearly still a lot of work to do.

Source: People's World, "Report: Food on American tables costs a life a day," Mark Gruenberg, April 15, 2013