This webinar focuses on a pilot project by the Ag Health and Safety Alliance (AHSA) that led to the development of an innovative educational tool to strengthen eye-safety awareness among young adults working in agriculture.
In April 2025, AHSA conducted a 360-degree video capture on the Mississippi State University (MSU) farm in collaboration with OP McCubbins. The team produced immersive scenarios featuring real agricultural activities, equipment operation, chemical handling, and general farm work-each filmed within authentic Mississippi agricultural settings. The videos showcased proper personal protective equipment (PPE) use, including face shields, chemical goggles, and safety glasses. Two young adult participants with experience in chemical handling, shop work, and welding served as role models throughout the filming process.
In September 2025, project personnel traveled to Mississippi to deliver the Gear Up for Ag program at MSU, which included the newly developed immersive Eye Safety 360° video. During this visit, a student focus group coordinated with OP McCubbins provided valuable feedback that is now guiding the final edits to the video.
Additional information will be presented about the Gear Up for Ag™ program, which is a unique health and safety training initiative designed for the next generation of agriculture. The program uses a combination of live demonstrations, virtual reality, 360° learning tools, and storytelling to engage participants. This program also includes Gear Up for Ag eLearning online health and safety resources that are provided to all participants and instructors.
