Necessity of standard time for agricultural workers compensation insurance

Agriculture ranks among the most hazardous industries. Farmers are at very high risk for fatal and nonfatal injuries, and farming is one of the few industries in which family are also at risk for injuries. Farms have many health and safety hazards, including chemicals and pesticides; machinery, tools and equipment that can be dangerous; hazardous areas; livestock that can spread diseases or cause injuries; and ergonomic hazards such as musculoskeletal disorders. In Korea, increasing attention is being given to providing compensation insurance for agricultural workers. To establish specific guidelines for compensation benefits for various agricultural operations, standard times are required for calculation of the benefits. In this paper, the statistics on farmers` accidents in Korea are reviewed, and it will be discussed why compensation insurance for agricultural workers is necessary. Finally, the work measurement methods suitable for agricultural operations are suggested.