Contrary to the popular image of fresh air and peaceful surroundings, a farm is not a hazard-free work setting. Every year, thousands of farm workers are injured and hundreds more die in farming accidents. According to the National Safety Council, agriculture is the most hazardous industry in the nation. OSU employees can be potentially exposed to a variety of health and safety hazards when exposed to the following: Chemicals/Pesticides; Extreme weather; Dust; Electricity; Grain bins; Hand tools; Highway traffic and transporting equipment; Irrigation equipment; Lifting; Livestock handling; Machinery/Equipment; Manure pits; Noise; Ponds; Silos; Slips/Trips/Falls; Toxic gases; and Tractors.

All farms overseen by Oregon State University are managed by university faculty, staff, and students who must adhere to any and all OSHA regulations and/or standards pertaining to work-related operations. OSU staff that supervise or work on farms, are encouraged to consult with EH&S to help ensure a safe workplace and practices are maintained.