Tips to Keep Your Farm and Your Employees Safe

General Farm Safety - NFU Farm Safety

Even though you've gone to great lengths to see that your farm is as safe a work environment as you could make it, the very nature of the work presents potential safety hazards that all farm workers need to be aware of. So, let's take a moment and talk about a few of the potentially dangerous situations to avoid in order to assure the safety of you and your farm workers.

[Grain Storage Bin Safety]

Every year people who enter grain bins are engulfed and trapped in grain. It takes only seconds to be entrapped and over 50% of these entrapments result in death. Grain entrapment is often caused by grain that goes out of condition resulting in clumping, cones, pyramids, bridging, and other problems with bin unloading. When this happens, people frequently enter bins because the grain does not flow smoothly through the system. Grain that has formed bridges or cliffs may collapse on a person, sometimes completely covering the person. People in bins may also get pulled under by flowing grain. This grain entrapment can cause suffocation and death. It's important for anyone who enters a grain bin to know what the hazards are and how to remain safe. Grain must be dried sufficiently and cooled properly if it's to remain in good condition while in storage. Always lockout and tagout all equipment before anyone enters a grain bin and make sure everyone is properly trained and they follow all grain bin entry procedures.

[Grain Auger Safety]

Grain augers can be very dangerous if not used properly. Due to the nature of their active moving components (the hydraulics, winches, and the auger itself) it will always pose a threat of serious injury if you are not careful in its use and maintenance. Stay clear of the auger when it is operating. Be sure to always use the lockout mechanism to shut the power off before you work on the auger, and be sure to tag out as well so others can see that someone is in the binds.

[ROPS – Rollover Protection]

Although rollover protection structures have been available for some time, they were not standard on all manufactured tractors until 1985, but many, many farmers are still using tractors that predate the requirement for built in ROPS. Unless a retrofit ROPS unit and seat belt are installed, the driver is unprotected if the tractor rolls over. And if an unprotected vehicle rolls over, an accident that results in a serious injury or death, is very likely. Be aware the greatest number of rollover accidents occurs on the small utility tractors compared to the large field tractors, but that doesn't mean you are completely safe when you enter the cab of a large modern tractor. You still need to wear your seat belt. In an accident you might be tossed about or possibly thrown through the window unless you are buckled up.

[ATV Safety]

To reduce the risk of injury or fatality while operating an ATV, follow these safety recommendations. ATV's are not toys. Manufacturers suggest children under the age of 12 should not operate ATV's with an engine size over 70CC. Children under the age of 16 years often lack the emotional maturity and physical size to operate or control most machines. They should not operate adult sized ATV's or those with an engine greater than 90CC's. Never carry a passenger. The unique handling characteristics of an ATV require that the operator shift both weight and position on the seat to steer and control the vehicle. Extra riders hamper the operators ability to steer and control the ATV. Since ATV's are small and load of the ground, they are not as visible as larger vehicles. Lights, reflectors, and highly visible flags should be used to increase visibility. Where a helmet. Just because you're riding short distances on the farm out of traffic, a spill can still result in serious head trauma if the rider is not wearing a helmet.

[Fatigue]

And lastly, but most important, the most hazardous behavior to try and avoid while working on the farm - fatigue. Being overly tired then cancel out all other cautions by becoming too weary to follow good practices or too tired to pay attention enough to spot potential dangers. If forced to work long hours, take frequent breaks and work with or be accompanied by someone else, and you'll be a whole lot safer.

[Footage Courtesy of: Ag PhD, ATV Safety Institute, Canadian Agricultural Safety Association, Christianson Farms, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, Justin Prokosh, National Farm Medicine Center, New Mexico State University, North Dakota State University Extension Service, SAIF Corporation, Show-Me Farm Safety, and Visser Family Farm]

[Produced by National Farmers Union with Financial Support of: CHS Foundation, Hastings Mutual Insurance Company, QBE Insurance, Midwest Regional Agency, Montana Farmers Union, and ND Farmers Union Insurance]

Grain Bin & Auger Safety - NFU Farm Safety

Grain handling in bins can become routine, and when a worker is in a hurry trying to finish a job, well that's when an accident can happen and grain handling accidents can be dangerous. Every year people who enter grain bins are engulfed and trapped in grain. It takes only seconds to be entrapped and over 50% of these entrapments result in death.

[Grain Entrapment]

Grain entrapment is often caused by grain that goes out of condition resulting in clumping, cones, pyramids, bridging, and other problems with bin unloading. When this happens, people frequently enter bins because the grain does not flow smoothly through the system. Grain that has formed bridges or cliffs may collapse on a person, sometimes completely covering the person. People in bins may also get pulled under by flowing grain. This grain entrapment can cause suffocation and death.

The stakeholders are farmers and farm families, grain elevator owners and workers, emergency services personnel and the local community, all of whom may be affected by the social and economic consequences of these incidents.

[Training and Lifeline Protection Systems]

It's important for anyone who enters a grain bin to know what the hazards are and how to remain safe. The Grain Handling Safety Coalition has training modules available to help train workers in grain bin safety, including the module on grain bin entry. This training emphasizes that grain must be dried sufficiently and cooled properly if it's to remain in good condition while in storage.  

Always lockout and tagout all equipment before anyone enters a grain bin. Make sure everyone is properly trained and they follow all grain bin entry procedures. And always use a harness and properly anchored lifeline with a second person to observe and monitor the worker in the grain bin. There is a video available on the Lifeline Protection System. It describes the proper use of the lifeline system, including details about the harness, ropes, proper anchor points, and the responsibilities of a second person or observer. In addition to grain bin safety, the Grain Handling Safety Coalition also has training modules on entanglement hazards, fall hazards, characteristics of confined spaces, and youth curriculum for agricultural instructors.

It's time for everyone to realize that getting hurt or dying in a grain bin is not an accident, it's the result of not identifying the hazards and not taking the appropriate precautions. Remember, proper training, use of an effective lifeline system, and adherence to grain bin entry procedures, including lockout tagout will greatly reduce the number of fatalities in grain bins. More information about the Grain Handling Safety Coalition, their training modules, and the Lifeline video is available at grainsafety.org.

[Grain Auger Safety]

Grain augers can be very dangerous if not used properly due to the nature of their active moving components. The hydraulics winches and the auger itself will always pose a threat of serious injury if you are not careful in its use and maintenance. Stay clear of the auger when it is operating. Be sure to always use the lockout mechanism to shut the power off before you work on the auger, and be sure to tagout as well so others can see that someone is in the bins.  

The number of grain bin fatalities can be greatly reduced if farmers and their workers get proper training and follow grain bin safety procedures. Use of an effective lifeline system, adherence to grain bin entry procedures including lockout tagout will go a long way towards keeping grain bin workers safe and make your farm a whole lot safer.

[Footage Courtesy of: Ag PhD, ATV Safety Institute, Canadian Agricultural Safety Association, Christianson Farms, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, Justin Prokosh, National Farm Medicine Center, New Mexico State University, North Dakota State University Extension Service, SAIF Corporation, Show-Me Farm Safety, and Visser Family Farm][Produced by National Farmers Union with Financial Support of: CHS Foundation, Hastings Mutual Insurance Company, QBE Insurance, Midwest Regional Agency, Montana Farmers Union, and ND Farmers Union Insurance]

[Produced by National Farmers Union with Financial Support of: CHS Foundation, Hastings Mutual Insurance Company, QBE Insurance, Midwest Regional Agency, Montana Farmers Union, and ND Farmers Union Insurance]

PTO: Power Take Off - NFU Farm Safety

Narrator: The power takeoff or PTO shaft is an efficient means of transferring mechanical power between farm tractors and implements. This power transfer system helped revolutionize North American agriculture during the 1930s and its clever technology is still being widely used on farms today. But it is also one of the oldest and most persistent hazards associated with farm machinery.

[PTO Safety]

It is important to understand that the PTO is one of the most dangerous pieces of equipment on the farm. Note the rotating part of the PTO [video of rotating PTO with shield]. Even if it is shielded, workers should never reach across it or step across it. This could result in severe injury or even death.  

Remember, PTO entanglements usually result in severe injury or death. Keep clothes and limbs away from rotating PTO shafts. Always disengage the PTO, turn off the engine and remove the keys before leaving the tractor seat.

Let's hear from a very lucky and a very resilient survivor of a serious PTO accident who now travels about to share a cautionary story to help others avoid farm accidents like her PTO entanglement.

[Kristi Ruth’s PTO Entanglement]

Kristi Ruth: My name is Kristi Ruth. I'm 16 years old and I've lived on the family farm all of my life. Morning, February 18th. It was a sunny morning. It was a gorgeous, gorgeous morning outside. I mean it was the middle of winter, but the sun was shining. I mean there was a light coat of snow on the ground, and I mean it's one of those days you want to go outside.

Joe Ruth: Well, we went down there. Put some posts in the barn. We bought some bred heifers for Kristi for a college fund. We'd had nice breakfast and we went down to work trying to drill some holes to put a head chute in.

Jake Ruth: We were down there and we had a little post hole digger and it just really wasn't cutting worth a darn, ground is frozen, so I tried hopping up on top of it when putting my gut into it.

Kristi Ruth: My brother would get up on top of it, he would like have his arms straight out and its wrists back and have all this weight on it and his feet are dangling like this far off and they're wiggling around. We’re like, “Oh my God he's gonna get hurt.”

Joe Ruth: I was actually watching her brother more than Kristi, I didn't even realize she was that close. But the long story short, the digger bit in and went over against the barn and she went out to grab it to pull it back away from the old barn.

Kristi Ruth: I went out and I held it like this, one hand on top, one hand on bottom (except it was this way), and I just held it still and Jake was on top of it and then Dad gave us the all clear and said stop, we're done. It's not doing anything, we'll do something else today. It's not worth it. I pulled my arm away (I can't show on this arm cause it doesn't bend), I went like this and it kept my glove and it pulled me in and it wrapped me completely up and it pulled me up against the barn and my arm rather than just straight out, it went down and then out.

Joe Ruth: I had to pull the tractor ahead with her on it before we could unwrap her and my oldest son and I we unhooked power take off shaft and turned it backwards and her arm just rolled off the power take off shaft and I think it was around about four times and it just probably the worst sight you'd ever see as a parent. See your own...

Kristi Ruth: That I almost lost my arm. I should have lost my life. There's not very many people that can walk away from a PTO injury. Everywhere you go you're using machinery, you're using the equipment, and you have farms. Everybody in America is affected by this, whether they think they are or not.  

My instinct wasn't keeping me safe. I wish I was paying attention to the situation. I was worried about other people. I was worried about what's going to happen to the machinery. What's going to happen to the barn rather than what's going to happen to me. I wasn't worrying about me being safe because I was just thinking, you know, I do farm safety all the time. Why would I get hurt? It's not going to happen to me. But it did and you have to be careful no matter what you are doing you have to be aware. And your instinct has to be your own personal safety and then fixing the problem at hand.

Narrator: So always remember, even if the PTO is shielded, never reach across it or step across it. Keep clothes and limbs away from rotating PTO shafts and before leaving the tractor seat, always disengage the PTO, turn off the engine and remove the keys.  

To stay safe when working with the PTO on your farm, always use caution and never forget that the PTO is one of the most dangerous pieces of equipment on your farm.

[Footage Courtesy of: Ag PhD, ATV Safety Institute, Canadian Agricultural Safety Association, Christianson Farms, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, Justin Prokosh, National Farm Medicine Center, New Mexico State University, North Dakota State University Extension Service, SAIF Corporation, Show-Me Farm Safety, and Visser Family Farm][Produced by National Farmers Union with Financial Support of: CHS Foundation, Hastings Mutual Insurance Company, QBE Insurance, Midwest Regional Agency, Montana Farmers Union, and ND Farmers Union Insurance]

[Produced by National Farmers Union with Financial Support of: CHS Foundation, Hastings Mutual Insurance Company, QBE Insurance, Midwest Regional Agency, Montana Farmers Union, and ND Farmers Union Insurance]

Farm Electrical Safety - NFU Farm Safety

When you make a mistake on the farm, most often you can learn from it and make corrections so it doesn't happen again. But when you make a dangerous electrical mistake, you may never get a second chance. It is important to always respect energy and the danger it can pose on the farm. Most electrical mishaps on the farm can be avoided if you take time to be attentive to the electrical environment where you are working.

[Be Attentive and Look for Electrical Hazards]

Be aware that when you are hurrying and don't pay attention to your surroundings you are more likely not to notice potential electrical hazards. Make sure you know how to shut off the power everywhere on the farm. Always look up for overhead power lines whenever you are moving tall equipment keeping at least 10 feet away so current can't jump or arc across and make contact. Always look down for underground power lines before you go to dig or do construction. If needed you can call 811, a national number, that will bring in professional locators who will locate and mark underground lines. Remember to look around for equipment that is malfunctioning or has been damaged by age or weather.

If a wire is hanging low or has fallen on the ground, you may not be able to tell whether it is live or not. For safety's sake, treat every wire as if it is energized. Keep all electrical devices and extension cords away from animals, water, and damp areas. When using extension cords, make sure to plug into a GFI ground fault circuit interrupter, particularly when using an extension cord in a wet environment outdoors. Keep old power tools, motors, cords, and other electrical equipment in good repair, checking frequently for fraying, cracking, or signs of scorching. If you need to turn power off, make sure you tag the fuse or breaker switch so no one else turns it on while you are working.

[If a Person or Vehicle Comes in Contact with an Electrical Wire]

If a person comes in contact with an energized wire, they will become part of the pathway to ground, so it is very important that you do not touch that person until the power is off. Then call 911 and then assist the victim, administer CPR if they are not breathing. If there is a subsequent fire, don’t try and use a fire extinguisher unless it is rated for electrical fires.

If you are in a vehicle that has become entangled with live electrical wires, stay in the vehicle. If the vehicle is energized and you try to exit and touch the ground and the vehicle at the same time before power is shut off, current can pass through you, and electrical shock can occur. So stay in the vehicle, call for help, and tell others just stay away from the vehicle and not to touch it. Then call 911 and the power company. If the vehicle has caught fire and you are in jeopardy of being burned,  jump clear of the vehicle, making sure you land on two feet. Then either hop away on two feet or shuffle away on two feet, always keeping both feet on the ground at the same time.

So remember, the best way to avoid electrical accidents while working on the farm. Look up for power lines, look down for power lines, and look around for malfunctioning or damaged electrical devices and cords and you'll stay safe from electrical hazards while doing your farm work.

[Footage Courtesy of: Ag PhD, ATV Safety Institute, Canadian Agricultural Safety Association, Christianson Farms, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, Justin Prokosh, National Farm Medicine Center, New Mexico State University, North Dakota State University Extension Service, SAIF Corporation, Show-Me Farm Safety, and Visser Family Farm][Produced by National Farmers Union with Financial Support of: CHS Foundation, Hastings Mutual Insurance Company, QBE Insurance, Midwest Regional Agency, Montana Farmers Union, and ND Farmers Union Insurance]

[Produced by National Farmers Union with Financial Support of: CHS Foundation, Hastings Mutual Insurance Company, QBE Insurance, Midwest Regional Agency, Montana Farmers Union, and ND Farmers Union Insurance]

ATVs: All Terrain Vehicles - NFU Farm Safety

ATVs are used on all types of farms and ranches, both for fun and for work. because of their handy mobility. Many farmers use ATVs as a substitute for pickup trucks, horses, and even walking. ATVs are commonly used to inspect crops and livestock, to inspect and repair irrigation systems and fence lines, to supervise field crews, to herd livestock, and a variety of other jobs on the farm.

So, it's very important that anyone who uses an ATV on your farm follows basic ATV safety procedures and precautions. To reduce the risk of injury or fatality while operating an ATV, follow these safety recommendations.

[ATV Operator Age]

ATVs are not toys. Manufacturers suggest children under the age of 12 should not operate ATVs with an engine size over 70 CC. Children under the age of 16 years often lack the emotional maturity and physical size to operate or control most machines. They should not operate adult sized ATVs or those with an engine greater than 90CC.

[Don’t Carry a Passenger]

Never carry a passenger. The unique handling characteristics of an ATV required that the operator shift both weight and position on the seat to steer and control the vehicle. Extra riders hamper the operator’s ability to steer and control the ATV.

[Increase Visibility]

Since ATVs are small and low to the ground, they are not as visible as larger vehicles. Lights, reflectors and highly visible flags should be used to increase visibility.

[Wear a Helmet]

Wear a helmet. Just because you're riding short distances on the farm out of traffic, a spill can still result in serious head trauma if the rider is not wearing a helmet.

Safe ATV riding requires an awareness of the hazards you can face while riding and taking the proper action to avoid those hazards. Remember, certain dangers and risks involved with the riding of an ATV can result in serious injury or death.

[Avoid Paved Roads]

Always avoid paved surfaces. Riding on paved surfaces can seriously affect the handling and control of the vehicle and may cause a sudden loss of control. If you must drive on pavement, turn gradually and go slowly. An ATV is not intended for public road usage.

[Use Appropriate Speed and Don’t Do Tricks or Stunts]

Never operate at excessive speeds for the terrain visibility, your abilities, or your experience level. Never do wheelies, jumps, or stunts. Do not drive while under the influence of anything that might impair your driving abilities, such as alcohol, drugs, or fatigue. You know not to drink and drive when you're on the road. Well, drinking and driving doesn't mix for off road driving either.

Every time you ride your ATV, you are accepting inherent risks such as those that arrive from terrain and weather conditions, but you can reduce your exposure to these risks by using good judgment, skills and vigilance. Remember, wear a helmet, don't let children drive your ATV, never carry a passenger, and keep off paved roads. Follow the advice we've outlined and you'll be safe driving your ATV on the farm.

[Footage Courtesy of: Ag PhD, ATV Safety Institute, Canadian Agricultural Safety Association, Christianson Farms, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, Justin Prokosh, National Farm Medicine Center, New Mexico State University, North Dakota State University Extension Service, SAIF Corporation, Show-Me Farm Safety, and Visser Family Farm]

[Produced by National Farmers Union with Financial Support of: CHS Foundation, Hastings Mutual Insurance Company, QBE Insurance, Midwest Regional Agency, Montana Farmers Union, and ND Farmers Union Insurance]

Handling Chemicals - NFU Farm Safety

It's pretty common to find many different chemicals and pesticides in use on a modern farm these days, so common it's easy to take them for granted and taking them for granted can lead to carelessness, which in turn can lead to serious injury. So let's take a few minutes and talk about good practices for the safe use of chemicals and pesticides on the farm.

[The Importance of Proper Training in Handling Chemicals]

When working around chemicals and pesticides, it is best to be properly trained to ensure your safety. There are chemical and pesticide courses available and should be taken if you are working directly with the application or handling of chemicals and pesticides. Be aware your state may require training and certification to lawfully do this type of work.

[Be Familiar with Chemical Safety Warnings and Labels]

Prior to using chemicals, familiarize yourself with safety and warning symbols and what dangers the different chemicals will present when mishandled. Before using any chemicals read through the material safety data sheet to learn more about how to properly handle that particular chemical as well as what to do in case of emergency. Training and reading, these safety materials is very important. That's because you need to know more than just how to properly apply the chemical product.

[Minimize Chemical Exposure]

You also need to know how to minimize health risks from chemical and pesticide exposure or to recognize signs and symptoms of illness from chemical exposure. You will also want to know how to respond with first aid and how to clean up a spill and how to deal with any emergencies involving chemicals. How to transport, mix, load, store and dispose chemicals and their containers safely. Make sure you and your workers wear, use, and maintain protective equipment. When handling chemicals it is important to always wear protective gloves as well as protective clothing. When working with some chemicals you will also have to protect yourself by using a respirator and eye protection. It's good to have absorbent materials handy in case of chemical spills. Chemicals can enter the body in four ways. Transdermal through the skin, inhalation through breathing, ocular through the eyes, and ingestion through swallowing.

[Chemical Storage]

Always store chemicals in their original well labeled bottles. If this is not possible, make sure they are stored in clearly marked containers. Always keep the storage area locked and separate from where animals are housed and away and out of reach of children. Always wash hands after using or storing chemicals in case you have any chemical residue left on your hands that can be transferred into the body from eating, smoking and using the bathroom. If any chemicals slosh or spill on clothing while you are working, make sure you shower and change clothes right away to avoid absorbing dangerous chemicals into your body.

So remember, the best way to avoid chemical accidents while working on the farm. Always lock up and store pesticides separately, away from people and animals. Always wear the proper protective clothing, gloves, eye wear, and respirator when needed. Thoroughly clean chemical residue off equipment after use. And always wash your hands after handling any pesticides or chemicals and you'll stay safe from pesticide and chemical mishaps while doing your farm work.

[Footage Courtesy of: Ag PhD, ATV Safety Institute, Canadian Agricultural Safety Association, Christianson Farms, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, Justin Prokosh, National Farm Medicine Center, New Mexico State University, North Dakota State University Extension Service, SAIF Corporation, Show-Me Farm Safety, and Visser Family Farm][Produced by National Farmers Union with Financial Support of: CHS Foundation, Hastings Mutual Insurance Company, QBE Insurance, Midwest Regional Agency, Montana Farmers Union, and ND Farmers Union Insurance]

[Produced by National Farmers Union with Financial Support of: CHS Foundation, Hastings Mutual Insurance Company, QBE Insurance, Midwest Regional Agency, Montana Farmers Union, and ND Farmers Union Insurance]

Livestock Handling Safety - NFU Farm Safety

You know when you work on a farm routine can be your best friend seeing the chores happen when they shared as they showed day after day. But we need to be careful that bad habits don't creep in and make your routines dangerous. So, let's talk about the good habits you and your crew should be sure and stick to when handling livestock, whether it be pigs, sheep, goats or cattle.

[Moving Cattle]

Cattle are animals with a herding instinct, which means they will follow the behavior and movement a dominant leader demonstrates. Here, cows are being moved to the barn. Notice how the cow pushers gently move them along without hitting or yelling at the cows. A simple hand on the back or a nudge is typically enough to get the animals to move. Combining your friendly manner with the animals’ herding instinct is the best way to load animals. When needed, the rattle, strange shape and gentle nudge of a paddle will be more than enough to coax the cows into a trailer.

[How Cattle See]

Cattle see the world differently from you or me. They can see all around and only have a blind spot directly in back. Being able to see all around them means cattle can be distracted by motion off to their side, however, they don't see the world in as clear at focus as we do, so it takes them more time to process what they are seeing. They also don't see as well down below them, so a dark shadow can appear to be a deep hole. This is why cattle may balk at shadows, or a piece of trash on the ground.

[Cattle Flight Zone]

The flight zone is an animal’s personal space or comfort zone. The flight zone for cattle may be 5 to 25 feet depending on how often they have been handled. The flight zone increases when the approaches from the head and also increases when they are excited. The flight zone decreases when the animals are in a single file shoot. Cattle will normally move more effectively if the handler stays to the edge of the flight zone. Getting too close inside the flight zone may cause an animal to panic. In this illustration, position A is the area outside of the flight zone where animals will stop moving forward, moving into position B inside the flight zone will cause the animal to move away from the handler.

[Cattle Shoots Safety and Point of Balance]

Shoots are often used to single out an animal for treatment or to direct them into an enclosed area. Because of herd behavior, it is easier to move cattle in groups of two or three. One of the best ways to get animals to move in a shoot is to walk past their point of balance. Point of balance is a place on the animal near their right shoulder. When you stand in front of it, they should back up. When you stand behind it, they should move forward.

[Bull Safety - Never Trust a Bull]

Bulls can be very dangerous. Every year people are killed by bulls on the farm. Generally dairy bulls are more dangerous than beef bulls. Always be aware where a bull is when you are in a pen with them. It is best to have two people working together to watch out for each other and to distract the animal if it gets aggressive towards one of you. So be careful and never trust a bull. Always have an escape route planned when working in a pen with a bull.

So those are some good habits you and your crew should always use when handling any livestock. Be quietly gentle when moving livestock, be aware of their limited visual abilities, their flight zone, and point of balance. And always be careful to never trust a bull.

[Footage Courtesy of: Ag PhD, ATV Safety Institute, Canadian Agricultural Safety Association, Christianson Farms, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, Justin Prokosh, National Farm Medicine Center, New Mexico State University, North Dakota State University Extension Service, SAIF Corporation, Show-Me Farm Safety, and Visser Family Farm][Produced by National Farmers Union with Financial Support of: CHS Foundation, Hastings Mutual Insurance Company, QBE Insurance, Midwest Regional Agency, Montana Farmers Union, and ND Farmers Union Insurance]

[Produced by National Farmers Union with Financial Support of: CHS Foundation, Hastings Mutual Insurance Company, QBE Insurance, Midwest Regional Agency, Montana Farmers Union, and ND Farmers Union Insurance]

Transporting Equipment - NFU Farm Safety

Each year, accidents involving tractors and other farm machinery occur on public roads, causing death and injury to those involved as well as substantial costs and damage to expensive farm equipment. So it is very important to be aware of the hazards to watch out for and the basic safety procedures and precautions to follow when transporting farm equipment on rural roads.

[Driving Farm Equipment on Rural Roads]

Navigating rural roads with a wide load of farm equipment can sometimes be dangerous. That's because the roads are often very narrow lanes, aren't always marked, caution signs can be few and far between, and that country roads and highways are usually poorly lit. And in farm country rural roads are heavily used by slow moving equipment such as tractors, trucks and combines. Anytime a farmer moves a piece of farm equipment on the highway he is taking on a new responsibility. He has to recognize that there are other people using that highway and they have a right to use that highway just as he does.

Farmers need to always be aware that their equipment is larger, slower, wider, and often interferes with other traffic on the road. So these equipment operators need to realize that they must pay more attention to visibility, such as flashing lights, escort vehicles, and be sure that the SMV symbol is prominently displayed on a slow moving vehicle and can be easily seen.

It is also extremely important that your vehicle is equipped with proper rearview mirrors that can see behind and around your wide vehicle or machine in tow.

One of the most common road accidents that occurs with farm vehicles is when the driver makes a left hand turn not seeing a vehicle attempting to pass. Unfortunately, less traveled roads can lead to less vigilant driving habits. It's important to still fasten your seat belt. Don't drive drunk or under the influence of drugs and stay off your cell phone.

[Loading and Unloading]

Before loading or unloading the vehicle, make sure you on a flat surface. Never attempt to load a vehicle parked on a slope as this is one of the most common mistakes that can lead to a dangerous mishap.

Take the key out of the vehicle and set the parking brake. Before loading the trailer make sure you have connected it properly to the truck by checking the fifth wheel latch or gooseneck latch and seeing that the safety chains are connected safely to the truck.

You also need to make sure that the breakaway cable is connected directly to the truck and directly to the trailer so that it will disconnect and lock the brakes in case of a separation.

Make sure that the vehicle is level and that the last axle is chocked on the front and back to prevent a roll away.

So to be safe while transporting equipment, display the SMV symbol, use flashing lights, proper mirrors, and be particularly careful when making left turns off the road. And remember, never load a vehicle when it's on an incline and chock the rear axle to prevent a roll away. Also, double check that the safety chains and breakaway cable are properly secured to both vehicles.

Follow these tips and you'll be safer when transporting your farm equipment.

[Footage Courtesy of: Ag PhD, ATV Safety Institute, Canadian Agricultural Safety Association, Christianson Farms, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, Justin Prokosh, National Farm Medicine Center, New Mexico State University, North Dakota State University Extension Service, SAIF Corporation, Show-Me Farm Safety, and Visser Family Farm][Produced by National Farmers Union with Financial Support of: CHS Foundation, Hastings Mutual Insurance Company, QBE Insurance, Midwest Regional Agency, Montana Farmers Union, and ND Farmers Union Insurance]

[Produced by National Farmers Union with Financial Support of: CHS Foundation, Hastings Mutual Insurance Company, QBE Insurance, Midwest Regional Agency, Montana Farmers Union, and ND Farmers Union Insurance]

ROPS: Roll Over Protection - NFU Farm Safety

You know even with modern farm equipment's advanced safety designs, rollovers still take a deadly toll year after year. That's because so many of our farms are still utilizing old equipment that have not been outfitted with rollover protection. And that is an accident waiting to happen. Here are some tips that will keep you and your crew safe from a rollover.

[Retrofitting ROPS]

Although rollover protection structures have been available for some time, they were not standard on all manufactured tractors until 1985, but many, many farmers are still using tractors that predate the requirement for built in ROPS. Unless a retrofit ROPS unit and seat belt are installed, the driver is unprotected if the tractor rolls over. And if an unprotected vehicle rolls over, an accident that results in a serious injury or death, is very likely. ROPS retrofit kits are available for most older tractors, but not enough farmers have installed them.

Some farmers are reluctant to add ROPS to an old tractor because they just don't want to see a new structure added to an old classic vehicle, or they have found that the cost for the roll bar and seat belt is twice the value of the tractor that needs it. But farmers who question the expense of adding a ROPS unit to an old tractor need to ask themselves, what is their life or the life of an employee or family member worth.

[Wear Seat Belts]

The number of injuries and deaths due to rollovers are far too numerous to ignore. Operating a tractor without ROPS is a deadly accident waiting to happen. A key component of ROPS is the seat belt. Even in a modern vehicle with ROPS built in you are only properly protected if you're wearing your seat belt.

[Tractor Safety]

Be aware the greatest number of rollover accidents occur on the small utility tractors compared to the large field tractors. But that doesn't mean you are completely safe when you enter the cab of a large modern tractor, you still need to wear your seat belt. The cab on a newer large field tractor is a rigid structure and is rated as rollover protected. However, in an accident you might be tossed about or possibly thrown through the window unless you are buckled up.  

It is always so sad to hear about a farmer seriously injured or killed when he rolls over a tractor in a ditch. And if the loss of a loved one wasn't bad enough, it is always made worse knowing that it could have so easily been prevented. If you're running old equipment on your farm, it's time you seriously consider taking the step to retrofit with ROPS and make your farm a whole lot safer.

[Footage Courtesy of: Ag PhD, ATV Safety Institute, Canadian Agricultural Safety Association, Christianson Farms, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, Justin Prokosh, National Farm Medicine Center, New Mexico State University, North Dakota State University Extension Service, SAIF Corporation, Show-Me Farm Safety, and Visser Family Farm]

[Produced by National Farmers Union with Financial Support of: CHS Foundation, Hastings Mutual Insurance Company, QBE Insurance, Midwest Regional Agency, Montana Farmers Union, and ND Farmers Union Insurance]

Behavior Hazards & Child Safety - NFU Farm Safety

Even though you've gone to great lengths to see that your farm is as safe a work environment as you can make it, careless and unsafe behavioral habits can undermine those efforts and create hazards to you and your workers' safety. And although you've taken every precaution to see that your farm is as safe as it can be for adult workers, is it safe for children? Certain situations and objects on the farm that appear fun to a child can put them at risk of serious injury. Here are a few safety measures you can take to help prevent accidents.

[Keep Children Safe on Your Farm]

Never allow children to enter a farm building alone. Lock silos and bins. Make fixed ladders inaccessible and store portable ladders out of reach. Fence farm ponds and manure pits and cap abandoned wells. Store tools out of reach and lock sheds. Place unused dual tires flat on the ground, do not prop them against buildings or trees. Do not allow children to play on idle equipment. And most importantly, do not allow children to ride in or on any farm vehicles. This important rule of safety for farm kids is often neglected, but think about it for a moment, the law requires special car seats and safety belts for children traveling in autos for good reason. To let a child ride unprotected inside farm machinery is taking a risk no parent should permit.

[Prevent Falls]

Falls can cause serious injuries even from waist height. There are lots of things you can do around the farm to help prevent falls. Always use a 3 point hold when entering or exiting a vehicle.  Attach extra grab rails on trucks, tractors, headers, ramps and steps. Avoid heights where possible, but if you have to work at height, where a safety harness. Wear well-fitted boots with non-slip soles and take the time to install good lighting, especially around sheds. Remember it is much easier to prevent a fall than to recover from one.

[Avoid Distractions]

Paying complete attention to the job at hand is the smartest way to stay safe. So, while doing farm work, stay off the phone. Just like highway driving, this is a very dangerous distraction, causing more and more serious farm accidents every year. Never operate farm equipment or vehicles while under the influence of alcohol or prescription or over the counter medication that impairs your judgment or reflexes. 

[Fatigue]

And lastly, but most important, the most hazardous behavior to try and avoid while working on the farm is fatigue. Being overly tired can cancel out all other cautions by becoming too weary to follow good practices or too tired to pay attention enough to spot potential dangers. If forced to work long hours, take frequent breaks and work with, or be accompanied by, someone else. And don't be in a hurry. Rushing a job is a shortcut to an accident.

So, remember, don't let children ride in or on farm vehicles. See that they can't get near dangerous areas. Stay off your cell phone while driving and don't drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Wear a safety harness when working up high. And partner up with someone when you're working long hours. Trade out bad habits for good safe practices and your farm will be a whole lot safer.

[Footage Courtesy of: Ag PhD, ATV Safety Institute, Canadian Agricultural Safety Association, Christianson Farms, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, Justin Prokosh, National Farm Medicine Center, New Mexico State University, North Dakota State University Extension Service, SAIF Corporation, Show-Me Farm Safety, and Visser Family Farm]

[Produced by National Farmers Union with Financial Support of: CHS Foundation, Hastings Mutual Insurance Company, QBE Insurance, Midwest Regional Agency, Montana Farmers Union, and ND Farmers Union Insurance]

Farm Emergency Preparedness

Farmers are hard at work in their fields every day. When there’s an emergency, they need to react immediately. That’s why it’s important to have a farm emergency preparedness plan.

An emergency plan for a farm includes more than just the farm family and its employees. It includes barns, outbuildings, and equipment. Here’s what to consider for your emergency plan.

Start with your people. Make sure you have phone numbers and email addresses for your suppliers, employees, and customers. Don’t forget about your veterinarian and of course your insurance agent.

If you have animals on the farm, get their health records up to date. Monitor and test feed and crops to prevent mold or insects.

Keep your vehicles and equipment in good working order with plenty of fuel. Cleanliness and maintenance are key to preventing fires and mechanical issues. Don’t forget to back up your computer and keep important documents in a secure location that isn’t on your property.

A hot, dry season can increase your risk of fire. Keep flammable material like gas, hay, and bedding away from heat sources, and in a separate building if possible.

A first aid kit and fire extinguisher are important in every emergency plan. On a farm, think bigger: you need a generator, extra water and food, and materials to clean up a hazardous waste spill if one happens.

Hastings Mutual’s Farmowners coverage helps take care of costs if there is an emergency. Contact your local independent insurance agent to see how we can help you get back to your fields.