Tips to consider for a safe working environment
By Diego Flammini
Assistant Editor, North American Content
Farms.com
A successful work day can be classified as one where everyone goes home safely to their families when the work is done.
With the machinery and implements that can make up a farmer’s repertoire, machinery and personal safety are key components to a successful operation.
“When we get to this time of year, I think about it in two aspects,” said William Harshman, Senior Project Associate, Agricultural Safety and Health from Penn State University’s Department of Agricultural and Biological Engineering.”
The two aspects outlined are the personal aspect and the machinery aspect.
One component of personal safety revolves around doing everything as quickly as possible.
“Being in a hurry leads to problems,” he said. “Being in a hurry can lead to some long hours. Farmers may not want to hear this, but sometimes you need to take a five minute break and get out of the tractor to stretch your legs.”
Harshman said that farmers need fuel to perform just like machinery does and shouldn’t take nutrition for granted.
“Even people who run marathons know that at certain mile markers they need to replenish.”
When it comes to machinery safety, Harshman says maintenance is king.
“We’ve had all winter long to make sure the machine is in good shape,” he said. “If we don’t break down while working on hundreds of acres, it’ll also reduce stress.”
Harshman also said that if employees are properly trained to work on the equipment, it creates a safer environment.
Other strategies he suggested include ensuring the markers, lights, and signs are cleaned, and in the case of transporting a wide load on a roadway, getting a police escort.