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6 Farm Machinery Hazards That Agribusiness Workers Need to Be Aware Of

By Axis Marketing

Even though farm machinery manufacturers try to ensure that their products are safe by equipping them with safety guards, agricultural work presents many hazards. Many times, workers suffer injuries because of human error from taking a shortcut, ignoring warning signs, not paying attention or not following safety rules. 

It’s important to train workers on proper procedure to prevent workplace accidents. Here are some of the most common farm machinery hazards, as well as several safety recommendations to share with workers to reduce their risk of injury:

 

Shear Points and Cutting Points

Shear points occur when the edges of two objects move close together and can cut soft material (example: auger). Cutting points occur when an object moves forcefully and is able to cut (example: sickle blade). To avoid injuries, employees must remain alert while operating machines with shear and cutting points. Employees should also advise nearby co-workers when using cutting machinery because some machines can throw objects while in use.

 

Pinch Points

Pinch points are created when two rotating objects move closely together, one moving in a circle. Hands and feet can get caught in pinch points, or other body parts can get pulled into pinch points when loose clothing becomes entangled in the machine. To avoid injuries, instruct employees to wear tight-fitting clothing and never reach over or work near rotating parts. Also, walk the farm and help employees identify places where pinch points can occur and avoid these areas.

 

Wrap Points

When exposed machine parts rotate, they create wrap points. Loose clothing can get caught in the moving parts, and consequently pull workers into the machine. To avoid injuries, show employees how to shield potential wrap points before beginning work. If wrap points cannot be shielded, paint them a bright colour to remind employees that they are there.

 

Crush Points

Crush points occur when objects move toward one another, or one object moves toward a stationary object. Workers can be crushed in between. Show employees how to block equipment securely to avoid fatal crushing injuries.

 

Free-Wheeling Parts

Some equipment with moving parts continues to spin after being shut off. To avoid injuries, employees need to wait until the machinery has completely stopped before touching it. Remind employees that this can take several minutes.

 

Hydraulic Systems

Workers servicing, adjusting or replacing parts on machines with hydraulic systems can face high-pressure blasts of hydraulic oil. This can cause injury and/or burns to the skin. To avoid injuries, train employees not to inspect hydraulic hoses with their hands because the hydraulic fluids can puncture the skin.

 

 

Find out more:

This list is not exhaustive. Download your own copy of our "Agriculture Employee Safety Manual" for more ways to keep your agribusiness employees safe:


Download Here

 

Tags: Agribusiness

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