Don’t Learn Safety by Accident

Safety is important to Federated. Every fall we remind our growers to be extra cautious during harvest. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics report (2022), the agriculture sector is still considered the “most dangerous [sector],” and the risks ramp up at harvest.
 
The third week of September is designated as National Farm Safety and Health Week (but we didn’t publish the Agronomy Update last week), so today Federated’s Tom Rausch, director of safety, offers these reminders about harvest safety:
 

• Don’t assume everyone knows how to operate your equipment. Train – or retrain – your workers, including your family members. (And be sure to read the equipment manuals!)
• Keep a maintenance checklist and be sure to follow it – and don’t take shortcuts. Your equipment should be well-maintained to ensure your safety. Your farmyard should also be kept clear of hazards.
• Have a plan for emergencies and make sure everyone understands it. Prepare for the worst. That preparation may be what saves you from serious injury or death.
• Communicate with your workers and your family. Don’t change locations during harvest without letting someone know where you are going.
• Beware of the children – your own and your neighbors. Talk to your own children about staying clear of any path heavy equipment might take. Most importantly, look all around before moving any equipment anywhere.
• Remember to be safe around grain bins. Don’t take anything for granted.
• Stop if you’re tired. Yes, the harvest window can be tight, but working while you are tired is one of the surest ways to cause injury or accidents.
• Enjoy the harvest. Your attitude will affect your productivity and your attitude toward the troublesome issues that may (or will!) arise. If you are stressed, rest. If you are hungry, enjoy a meal.

 
The National Education Center for Ag Safety annually offers webinars on farm safety. Follow this link to see archived webinars, including this year’s entitled, “No One Can Take Your Place.”
 
Your Federated Agronomists remind you to stay safe this harvest season!