Reap the Rewards of Safety

Sep 09, 2024

Farm equipment in the field

Harvest Safety Tips

Harvest season is a busy time for farmers, one which often presents a heightened risk for injury. It is important to prioritize safety to protect both people and property during this time. Key factors to be aware of include equipment, grain bin, chemicals, and road safety.

Equipment Safety

Regularly inspect all equipment, including tires, brakes, lights, and hydraulic systems. Always make sure children are supervised around and stay away from running equipment. Ensure all operators are properly trained and understand the equipment's capabilities and limitations.  Maintain a safe distance from moving machinery and avoid distractions. 

Machine entanglements are a leading cause of farm accidents, which is why the following safety precautions are crucial: 

  • Make sure all shields are in place on augers and PTO shafts 
  • Ensure the auger does not get clogged by keeping foreign materials out and not overwhelming the auger with too much grain
  • Do not wear loose clothing around the auger or PTO shaft

Grain Bin Safety

Before entering the bin, evaluate the grain condition to be sure it is safe to enter. If safe, cut off all power to grain discharge equipment, put on the proper safety gear (harness with a lifeline), and always have at least one person to serve as a lookout at the bin door. Be aware of engulfment hazards, to avoid becoming submerged. 

Three ways a person can become engulfed in grain:

  • A person can be caught in flowing grain
  • When a person falls through a void under crusted grain
  • When grain is not kept in the proper condition, it can clump in columns on the side and fall causing an avalanche

Chemical Safety

Always read and follow the instructions on pesticide and herbicide labels and ensure you or whoever is applying the chemical is properly licensed. Protect yourself from chemical exposure with the proper personal protective equipment (PPE) listed on the chemical label. Store chemicals in a secure, well-ventilated area, away from food and water sources.

Always be sure to review the chemical label before use. The label provides:

  • Proper Personal Protective Equipment needed for the chemical
  • Explains how to use the chemical correctly
  • Describes what to do in case something goes wrong

Road Safety

Road safety is important not only for farmers, but also for those that share the road with them. Be aware of road conditions and exercise caution when transporting equipment on public roads. Yield to other vehicles and allow ample time for them to pass safely.

By implementing these safety measures, farmers and agricultural workers can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and injuries during harvest. Safety is everyone's responsibility.