Here are a few safety tips from Michigan State University Extension to consider on your farm as producers prepare and start harvesting this season. These tips are true even for experienced farmers.
- Read operators manual(s).
- Install
Slow-Moving Vehicle (SMV) signs.
Harvesting in Iowa. Photo (c) Nick Halverson - Wear seat belts.
- Put equipment in neutral or park, engage parking brake, and turn off engine before dismounting. Wait until all mechanisms have stopped moving before attempting to service or unclog a machine.
- Locking hydraulic cylinders or supporting the head prior to working under it is always recommended.
- Limit riders on equipment! Instructional seats are designed for training or diagnosing machine problems.
- Keep all guards in place.
- Take breaks. Get enough sleep.
- Train all operators to safely operate the equipment.
- Fatigue, stress, medication, alcohol and drugs cause you to not focus on tasks.
- Have all safety equipment in proper condition and ready to use such as safety glasses, hearing protection and respiratory masks.
- Have ROPS (rollover protective structures) fitted on tractors.
Stay safe! Together we can!
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