A defined scope, not the whole food sector
Convention 184, adopted in 2001, covers agricultural and forestry activities in agricultural undertakings, animal husbandry and specified operations directly related to production. Its definition includes equipment use and maintenance and certain primary processing activities.
It excludes subsistence farming, industrial processing of agricultural raw materials and industrial exploitation of forests. International obligations depend on ratification and national implementation. These boundaries do not mean excluded activities are free from other occupational safety requirements.
Assess the actual seasonal work
Prevention of agricultural risks needs to consider the activity, undertaking size, equipment, products and people involved. The convention addresses assessment, preventive measures, understandable instructions and supervision. Training should take account of educational levels and language differences.
For example, bringing in a new crew requires explanation of hazards and controls before tasks are assigned, even during a short campaign. Previous agricultural experience elsewhere does not demonstrate familiarity with this undertaking’s equipment, access arrangements or products.
Equivalent protection for temporary work
The convention requires temporary and seasonal workers to receive the same safety and health protection as comparable permanent workers. It also addresses needs relating to pregnancy, breastfeeding and reproductive health, alongside young workers and hazardous activities.
Organisation should provide welfare facilities and, where the work requires living on the undertaking, accommodation meeting national requirements. Working hours, night work and rest periods follow applicable legislation and agreements, rather than a general assumption that peak season removes protection.
Equipment, products and assistance
Machinery, material handling, chemicals and biological agents have specific requirements. Recommendation 192 adds guidance on assessment, working-environment and health surveillance, emergencies and adapting technology to climate and work organisation. Its guidance complements the convention rather than carrying identical legal status.
A practical review checks whether an incident can be reported from the actual work location and whether planned assistance can reach it. This entry does not prescribe product doses or intervention procedures. It helps organise responsibilities and check that protection reaches everyone throughout the seasonal operation, including people arriving after the initial briefing.
