Friday, October 18, 2013

Have a Safety Plan for Harvest

As most farms get larger and producers are farming more acres, having a Safety Plan for your team is increasingly important. Plan for an injury- and incident-free harvest season. Develop a safety plan for the fall and include:
  • Team communications
  • Any training/operator refresher courses etc.
  • Maintenance schedules
  • Emergency procedures in place and reviewed by entire team
  • Expectations such as wearing personal protective equipment, checking in regularly and compliance with safety protocol procedures (such as shutting down equipment before unplugging, taking regular breaks, working with a buddy on specific tasks)

Most harvest injuries and fatalities involve machinery and equipment.
  • Be extra vigilant when re-familiarizing yourself with equipment such as swathers, mowers, combines and augers. Never become complacent with equipment.
  • Ensure implements are attached or hitched properly and in good working order
  • Review operation manuals and follow maintenance guidelines.
  • Ensure all guards and shields are in place and secure
  • Watch for changes in terrain such as holes, ruts or debris that may cause upsets or roll overs

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