Agriculture is one of the most hazardous industries in the United States, according to the National Safety Council, with 21.7 fatalities for every 100,000 workers. On top of that, 10 percent of all agricultural accidents result in an amputation, the organization says.
There's an additional, related problem, reports Harvest Public Media: Modern prostheses aren't holding up in the field:
Initially after his accident, [farmer Brian] Fleischmann had the opportunity to use one of the newer models that responded to his muscle signals. But he said that fancier tool acted up and didn’t fit well on his limb. Over time – like many farmers – he’s adopted the traditional farmer’s hook. He found it more reliable, affordable and durable than the more technologically advanced device.
Devices that respond to muscle signals can cost $75,000 to $80,000, one doctor told the outlet.
