HARVEST EQUIPMENT SAFETY

 

Harvesting equipment is a necessity on farms to gather the crops for a bountiful harvest.  Harvest time is the primary revenue time on some farms and is also one of the peak periods for farm injuries and death.  Many of these injuries could be prevented by implementing effective safety management on the farm.

·       Develop a “safety first” attitude.  Follow safe work practices all the time and set a good example for others.

·       Be physically and mentally fit before operating equipment.  Fatigue, stress and worry can cause you not to focus on safe equipment operation.  Take breaks.

·       Read operator’s manual and warning decals.  Pay attention to safety information.

·       Inspect the equipment and correct any hazards before operating.

·       Identify hazardous areas on equipment and make sure you stay away from moving parts.  Beware of pinch points, shear points, wrap points, pull-in areas, thrown objects, crush points, stored energy hazards and freewheeling parts.

·       Make sure everyone who operates the equipment has received training and is physically able to operate it safely.

·       Shut down equipment, turn off engine, remove key and wait for moving parts to stop before approaching equipment.

·       Keep bystanders and others away from equipment operation area.  Do not allow “extra riders,” especially children.

Inspection

___Y  ___N  PTO shields in place

___Y  ___N  Guards and shields in place

___Y  ___N  Safety locks operational

___Y  ___N  No leaks in hydraulics

___Y  ___N  Reflective SMV and lights work

___Y  ___N  20 lb. ABC fire extinguisher