Nearly 9% of farm workers sustain injuries each year from coming into contact with farm machinery. There are many other injuries that can be sustained on smallholdings or estates as well as in stables. However, these statistics are not always included in HSE statistics.
In addition to these injuries, 17 people died from accidents involving farm machinery in the past five year. Safety is a top priority when operating farm machinery or implements.
Even minor injuries could cause major problems. Imagine what it would be like to drop a large piece of equipment on your feet and break a bone. It could make it very difficult for you to continue with your essential jobs while your foot is still in a cast.
Here are 10 important safety tips that will help you safely operate your farm machinery.
Check out the Manual!
No matter if you need a manual to guide you on how to use a small tractor or a simple farm implement, it is important that the manual includes specific safety and health advice. Even if your previous experience with similar implements is not a problem, it's worth taking the time to familiarize yourself with safety advice before you put it into practice.
Make sure you take care of your body
Inadequately maintained farm equipment can pose a danger to the safety of the farmer. Make sure that the machinery is in working order before you start using it. Follow maintenance guidelines like cleaning, lubrication, and fluid levels.
PTOs and PTO shafts should be given special attention. Each year, people are injured or killed in accidents involving PTOs. There are replacement shields available. Please check yours frequently and replace if it shows signs of damage.
The Best Implement for The Right Job
Avoid using farm implements for tasks that they weren't intended for. Improper use can lead to malfunctions or injury. The right tool will be used for the job, and it will make the task easier.
Use the Right Safety Gear
You can find information in your manual about suitable protective clothing. The basics of eye and ear protection include hand protection, safety boots, and hand protection. Chainsaw trousers, etc. are additional protective clothing that you should use when operating tools like chainsaws. Use farm implements safely with no loose clothing or shoe laces. You don't want your hair to get caught in moving parts.
Assure that you have the help you need
Although small farm equipment is easy to manage by yourself, heavier and more complicated implements will require an extra pair of hands. If you aren't willing to ask for help, you could inflict injury.
Start-Up Compact Tractors Sitting On The Seat
Do not allow a tractor to drive a stationary tool. You should always be seated in the tractor's seat when it starts. Then, you can go down and do the job.
Avoid the Danger Zone between Tractor and Implement
If the engine is on, do not enter the area between the tractor & implement.
Get organized before you start looking for jobs
It is a good idea for you to walk through a field before you start to work in order to find hidden hazards. Potholes and stakes, boggy areas or rocks can all cause equipment damage and, in turn, damage to you.
Operate engines in well-ventilated locations
It is a good idea to protect your body from the cold and rain when operating a compact tractor from your yard. You should ensure that the area you are covering is well ventilated so that any engine fumes do not escape.
Keep Children Away From Farm Machinery
Unfortunately, every year, up to three children are killed in farm accident. 42% of these deaths involve equipment, machinery, or trailers; 33% involve tractors. Always supervise children around farm implements. Children aged 14 and older who want to help on the farms should be provided with proper training and instruction. They should also be closely supervised.
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