Safety on Farms
Safety on farms is vital in maintaining a successful environment. Children often frequent family-run farms, so many safety rules must be set up from the start. We have compiled a list of safety reminders for all farms; from the Midwest to the Southern Highlands of Australia, every farm needs these reminders.
Use this as a reminder that no matter how many times you've driven a tractor or used a baler, that it takes one day of carelessness, one day of throwing safety precautions to the side for there to be a tragic accident.
Stay alert
When using equipment, remain aware. It’s early, you're exhausted because, well you run a farm. But if you're exhausted, this isn't the time to be on a piece of equipment. Wake up first, rest if you must. Being drowsy at the wheel of any machine is a bad idea. If you wouldn’t step behind a car in that state, don't step behind a piece of farm equipment.
Clean up
Rogue parts lying on the ground like a skid steer part, tractor part or a blade could be a serious hazard. Keep parts on machines or put away in specific area.
Child safety
Keep children safe. Ensure that bins and silos are locked away and keys to machinery are high up, out of reach from little hands. Children love to explore and discover, as is in their nature. Keep that in mind. A farm is a perfect place to run around and explore new things. Keep it child proofed from dangerous exploration. Don't let children play on a tractor even if it's off. Your tractor could get shifted into drive when it’s parked, you never know.
Pay attention to your surroundings
Always check power lines. Dealing with tall machinery is a common thing many do on farms and that can be a serious hazard when you're near a powerline that ends up being shorter than the top of your machine's hydraulics. Always work with caution, electrical issues are avoidable.
Know your limits
Finally, keep your mind agile. If you start to sense fatigue, take a break. If you aren't at the top of your game, you could miss something and risk a serious accident. A bit of fatigue can risk the safety of your staff and yourself. Take a day of rest, it's worth it; if you take care of yourself, it'll pay off in spades on your farm.
A safe farm is a profitable one. Fewer accidents mean more time to get the work done. Keep these suggestions in mind this season.
