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June 2000 |
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Rush of Haying and Wheat Season Invites Shortcuts and Farm Accidents |
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Shortcuts and Farm Accidents Jim Jarman
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During haying and wheat harvest season in Missouri -- now in full swing -- farmers are in a rush. Our frequent rain showers have made matters worse. This calls for extra safety measures. A large percentage of injuries occur when people who are on the run try to fix or clear equipment when time seems short. Shortcuts may save a few minutes, but the pain of an injury and the time lost make such risks unacceptable. Even a rather minor injury will surely take more time than following safety precautions and doing the repair right. Always turn off the engine and take the keys with you before clearing or repairing equipment. When loading round bales with a front-end loader, use bale clamps or forks to prevent the bale from rolling back onto the operator. Hay should also be secure and stable before being transported. If you need to work under any hydraulically lifted equipment -- use blocks for support -- never rely on the hydraulic system. Be extra cautious around augers and flowing grain. Make sure the load being pulled is no heavier than the pulling unit can handle safely. Power take-off shafts are among the most dangerous - and deadly -- tools on the farm. Make sure all shields are in place. Eat regularly scheduled, balanced meals even if they have to be brought to you. In between meal snacks are a great idea. Although, think about water, fruits and vegetables not just sugar and caffeine. Also follow these safety tips:
There are no shortcuts to safety. The source for this article is Willard Downs, agricultural engineer at the University of Missouri-Columbia (573) 882-2731
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Do
not wear loose-fitting clothing while working around PTO powered
equipment.