National Farm Safety and Health Week was just last week. Some folks probably glossed over this, and some probably didn’t pay much attention because they don’t farm. But farm safety isn’t just for farmers – it’s for everyone.
One of the hazards of harvest season is increased traffic on our roads. This includes grain trucks, combines, tractors, horses, and buggies. Pay extra attention when sharing the road.
· Allow extra time to get where you're going. Slow down for farm equipment and buggies.
· Don’t follow too closely – when you’re too close, it may be impossible for you to be seen in rearview mirrors, especially from larger tractors and grain trucks.
· Watch for turn signals to avoid trying to pass when big equipment is trying to turn.
· Grain trucks and big tractors have a bigger turning radius than cars and pickup trucks – they need more room to turn.
· Pass with care and only when it’s safe to do so.
It’s easy to get impatient. But these farmers are my family, neighbors, co-workers, customers, and fellow community members. And they're yours, too. Everyone has places to go and time schedules to meet – let’s all do our part to get there safely.
I recently spoke with Sam McNeill, a University of Kentucky Ag Engineering professor about grain bin safety. Dr. McNeill said it’s important to remember the 3 C’s when it comes to monitoring grain condition.
· Core the bin after harvest. Don’t fill to the peak of the bin. Unload grain out of the bin so that the peak of grain at the top falls and leaves the grain surface W-shaped. This improves air flow and helps improve storage quality.
· Cool the grain as quickly as you can. Cooling is important to help balance relative humidity in the bin and keep grain from molding. It also helps control insect pests.
· Check the grain safely. Check grain from the ladder. If you must go in the bin, use a harness and tie to a secure anchor. Have someone there with you if possible.
These 3 C’s of monitoring grain bins will help avoid situations that create safety hazards.
My grandfather lost part of two fingers in a corn picker, so I know running farm equipment can be dangerous. When something gets stuck in running equipment, resist that urge to quickly free up the jam. Stop and turn everything off before trying to fix the problem.
Farm safety is a broad topic covering many activities, from livestock to vegetables to grain. It’s easy to forget when you’re in a hurry to finish the job. But take that extra time to keep yourself safe. Your family and friends will thank you for it.
