Safety Practices in High School Agriculture Mechanics Labs in North and South Texa

Safety in the agriculture mechanics laboratory is a major concern for teachers, students, parents, and administration. The administration of safety practices relies on the instructor's knowledge and experience on the subject. This study sought to determine safety practice of high school agriculture mechanics labs in north and south Texas and evaluate differences and similarities. The instructors in both areas had similar experience levels in regards to teaching longevity. The majority of teachers in both areas have taken three or more college agriculture mechanics courses. The study showed that a large percentage of teachers in both areas did not know the amount or if they even carried liability insurance. A high percentage of instructors felt comfortable administering first aid in emergency situations. Instructors feel ill prepared to instruct on all aspects of safety in the agriculture mechanics laboratory. Agriculture mechanics instructors should attend regular training to keep up to date with safety practices and to expand their knowledge on the subject. Additional research in needed to expand on the need to educate teachers on safety principles in agriculture mechanics laboratory.