Machinery Safety
Agricultural machinery is powerful, efficient, and essential to all agricultural operations; however, it can be extremely dangerous when not used properly. Equipment such as tractors, PTO-driven implements, ATVs/UTVs, and other shop tools can cause serious injury and even death if safety procedures are not followed. Review all safety procedures annually to help limit injury risks.
Tractor Safety Tips
Tractors remain the leading cause of agricultural-related incidents.
- Key Safety Reminders:
- Always wear a seatbelt when operating a tractor that is equipped with ROPS
- If you have your ROPS folded down, or your tractor does not have ROPS, never wear your seatbelt!
- Never have extra riders if you do not have a buddy seat. One seat means one operator!
- Always reduce your speed when you make a turn or are traveling on a slope.
- Always keep safety shields and guards in place. These are installed to keep you and others away from dangerous components on your tractor.
- Before exiting your tractor, always shut off the engine, remove the key, and wait for all moving components to stop. While this may take extra time, it can limit your chances of being injured.
- Always wear a seatbelt when operating a tractor that is equipped with ROPS
PTO Safety
PTO shafts can rotate at 540 RPMs, which is roughly 9 rotations per second. Entanglements can happen in an instant.
- Prevent PTO Injuries:
- Never step over a rotating PTO shaft. Always keep a safe distance from spinning PTO shafts.
- Always keep PTO shields in place. These shields are there to prevent entanglements.
- Tie back long hair and avoid loose clothing when working around PTOs.
- Always disengage the PTO and shut off the equipment before hitching, unhitching, or servicing the equipment.
ATV/UTV Safety
ATVs and UTVs are common in agricultural operations and require proper training before use. While these are often viewed as “toys,” they still pose the risk for serious injury or death.
- Wear a DOT-approved helmet when operating an ATV.
- No extra riders unless the machine is designed for passengers.
- Always operate at a safe speed for your conditions.
- Avoid paved roads unless absolutely necessary. ATVs/UTVs are not designed for road travel.
Grain and Harvest Equipment Safety
Large harvest equipment often has multiple blind spots and various pinch points.
- If you are ever approaching harvest equipment or any other equipment, make eye contact with the operator first. This ensures that the operator can see you and is aware that you are approaching the equipment.
- Never enter a grain bin or any other bulk storage area without following proper safety procedures.
- Be mindful of augers and conveyors. These move at rapid speeds, and entanglement can happen very quickly.
- Always lockout/tagout equipment before servicing.
General Shop Safety
Always remember that safety is everyone’s responsibility!
- Always wear the necessary PPE. Safety glasses should always be worn when working in the shop.
- Keep work areas clean and organized. This can prevent trips and other incidents.
- Always inspect your tools before using. If a tool is damaged, report the damage and replace it immediately.
- Ensure you have proper ventilation before welding or working with chemicals.
