Farm Accident Prompts Reminder

PDMP Safety Tip
April 2010

On April 20 the MacGlaflin Farm in New Hampshire had a tragic accident occur with a silage cave-in. It was school vacation week. The farm’s feeder had just finished feeding and had just told his 11 year old son not to be riding his bike near the corn silage pile on the concrete pad. Before you know it they heard a large noise and realized that they didn’t see the boy anywhere. Several people rushed over to the corn pile and found a large section of corn had fallen to the silo floor. They hurried to pull back the silage pile and discovered the boy. They immediately started to perform CPR. The boy was rushed to Dartmouth Hospital in critical condition and later died. It is hard to believe over the years the number of cave-ins that have occurred with silage piles. This is a pit type silo with high walls and a tall face. Too many farms pile corn higher then loaders can reach and run the risk of cave-ins. In the long run the cost of a larger silo with lower silage heights is nothing. There’s certainly no value we can place on someone’s life.

Spring Farm Safety

PDMP Safety Tip
March 2010

There are many dangers on the farm throughout the farming season. One of the main causes of farm related incidents are youth not having enough education to operate equipment, in addition to attempting to get the job done quickly.

Here are some tips to help avoid injuries when operating tractors and augers:

TRACTORS are the main cause of death and injuries on the farm so it is very important to know how to operate and maintain tractors properly. You should regularly check for hazards that are related to tractor use, such as attached implements and field conditions. Hazard areas could include mechanical parts, operator training, other people, work procedures, unsafe jacking and uneven terrain.

GRAIN AUGERS can be very dangerous if safety precautions are not taken. There have been many broken hands, arms, fingers, legs and feet due to improper use of augers. On top of that there have been many amputations because grain auger safety precautions have not been taken. When starting and stopping the auger, be sure hands are clear of all moving parts. Ensure all guards are properly installed and locked in place. Be sure auger is empty before moving. A safe auger has a clutch and a starter. Always look up when moving augers to ensure that they clear overhead electrical power lines.

If you do not feel comfortable operating any piece of farm equipment you should let your parent or employer know before use.

Make sure you are fully trained to operate the equipment and that you are aware of proper first aid measures.

Be sure you are not tired or under the influence of any substance that can cause drowsiness when you are operating machinery.

Manure Pits

PDMP Safety Tip
January 2010

Some of the most tragic farm accidents are associated with manure pits. Death from toxic gases or drowning can occur. In some cases, multiple deaths have occurred when a second or third person tries to rescue someone else.

• Keep all manure storage areas fenced off.
• Provide forced ventilation before going into any manure storage area
• Wear a harness with rescue rope, and have plenty of help available to pull you away If necessary
• Never walk on the crust formed on top of manure storage
• Have warning signs in appropriate areas near manure storage

View 2009 Archived PDMP Farm Safety Tips