CalAgrAbility is kicking off the fall with several local and statewide safety events like the 13th Annual "Tools For Living" Fair (AT Expo) in Auburn, CA. Staff made connections there with over 40 agencies including the ergonomics and master gardener groups in Placer County. CalAg was invited to do a workshop at the Master Gardener's Fall Conference in October. The presentation will be focused on AT and safe and sound farming and gardening techniques.
For National Farm Safety Week, staff published bilingual PSAs and, along with our partners, participated in daily AgriSafe webinars. We also celebrated Martha Stiles' wonderful rural occupational safety career and contributions as CalAg designer and director for over 12 years and as a California farm safety expert for over 30.
CalAg attended the 14th "Celebration on Central" in Lodi, CA. Staff spoke to 300 culturally diverse families with Punjabi, Latin & Caucasian heritage. Total attendance was about 2,000. Lodi is a grape/wine ag land; hence, it was no surprise for many attendees to report having experienced continuous hand joint pain while knowing little about arthritis. Staff conducted "mini-workshops" on arthritis management. Attendees received information on how to exercise hands and backs as well as a novella.
CalAgrAbility's partner, the Sacramento Ergonomics Round Table, has scheduled upcoming bi-monthly meetings in Sacramento, CA. Speakers include the president of the International Ergonomics Association. The round table provides an educational forum for everyone in the community who has an interest in the science of human factors/ergonomics, occupational health, and employee wellness and risk management.
Submitted by Maria Ceja