Month: November 2026

Questions

1. What does GFCI stand for?
2. What type of wire is best for humid or wet conditions?
3. Before digging, who should you always call to mark underground utilities?
4. True or False: If you come in contact with a power line, you should immediately exit the cab and walk around the incident.
5. True or False: GFCIs should be installed in wet or damp areas.

Answers

1. Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter
2. Type NMC
3. 811
4. False
5. True

Electrical Safety

Electrical safety is an important part of maintaining a safe and productive farm. From operating large equipment near overhead power lines to using everyday electrical tools in workshops or barns, hazards can be present throughout agricultural operations. Regular inspection, proper equipment maintenance, safe work practices, and awareness of electrical hazards can prevent serious injuries and fatalities. 

Common Electrical Hazards on the Farm

Agricultural environments present several unique electrical risks because of humid and wet conditions.

• Overhead Power Lines: Tractors, combines, grain augers, irrigation equipment, and other tall machinery can come in contact with overhead power lines.
• Damaged Wiring: Exposed wires, frayed cords, and damaged electrical connections can cause electrical shock and fire.
• Wet Conditions: Water, mud, and moisture around electrical equipment increase the risk of electrical shock. When appropriate, use Type NMC wiring or other wiring that does not have paper insulators.
• Overloaded Circuits: Plugging too many items into an outlet or circuit can cause overheating and fire.
• Improper Equipment Repairs: Attempting electrical repairs without proper training can result in serious injury or even death.
• Underground Power Lines: Digging, trenching, or installing fence posts without locating underground utilities can result in dangerous electrical contact. Always call 811 before you dig to avoid fines.

Watch Out for Overhead Power Lines

Overhead power lines are one of the most serious electrical hazards on farms. Tall agricultural equipment can easily come into contact with power lines, especially when moving between fields or working near grain bins and irrigation systems.

Practice these safety measures:

• Always identify overhead power lines before moving equipment.
• Maintain required clearance distances from electrical lines.
• Lower augers, booms, and other raised equipment before transporting.
• Never attempt to move or raise equipment near power lines without considering electrical clearance.
• Be aware of power lines when unloading grain, moving irrigation equipment, or operating cranes and loaders.

Remember: Electricity can arc or jump through the air. Direct contact with a power line is not always necessary for electrocution to occur.

If a tractor, combine, grain auger, or other piece of equipment contacts an overhead power line:

1. Stay inside the equipment. The equipment may become energized.
2. Warn others to stay away from the machinery and surrounding area.
3. Call 911 and the electrical utility company.
4. Do not touch the equipment or attempt to move the power line.
5. Remain inside until utility personnel confirm the power has been disconnected.

Before Starting Electrical Work

Electricity should never be taken lightly. Before working on electrical equipment:

• Disconnect the power source.
• Follow proper lockout/tagout procedures.
• Verify that the equipment is de-energized using appropriate testing equipment.
• Never assume a circuit is safe simply because a switch is turned off.
• Use qualified electricians for repairs beyond your training.
• Never work on energized electrical equipment unless properly trained, qualified, and equipped to do so.

Water and Electricity Don’t Mix

Agricultural work frequently involves water through irrigation systems, livestock watering facilities, washing equipment, and outdoor operations.

Keep electrical safety in mind:

• Never handle electrical equipment with wet hands.
• Avoid using damaged electrical cords in wet areas.
• Keep electrical connections protected from moisture.
• Use properly rated outdoor electrical equipment.
• Never stand in water while operating electrical equipment.
• Install GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets in wet areas.

Ag Injury News

10/4/2026: At least 14 injured after tractor pulling hayride rolls: NY sheriff

9/27/2026: Farm worker dies after head caught between truck’s tailgate and bed in Richland

9/25/2026: Three injured after side-by-side collides with horse pulling farm equipment

9/23/2026: Patterson man, 71, thrown from utility vehicle in fatal collision with pickup

9/17/2026: Boone County man run over by tractor, taken to University Hospital

9/15/2026: 3-year-old dies after Lancaster County farm accident

9/9/2026: Bloomfield farm worker injured after leg caught in silo auger