Improvement of Agricultural Working Environment for People with Disabilities

Abstract

There are few studies that analyze agricultural working conditions for people with disabilities, to enable them to better adapt to and continue working in agriculture. This study examines three exemplary entities, with varying organizational forms, who employ individuals with disabilities for agricultural production. The analysis specifies conditions that have enabled their prolonged employment while securing financial success. Different patterns are evident in each of the three cases. The results illuminate, first, that appropriate segmentation of work processes, clear assignment of responsibilities, and universal designs are essential to secure profitability for the farming entity whose primary purpose is not to provide care. Second, the organizations that provide care should ensure sufficient care providers, and that diverse and appropriate tasks are assigned to their disabled employees based on their varying needs and conditions. The study concludes that the rapid aging in the population of disabled workers in agriculture, requires the provision of new and improved welfare services to include support in daily living.