American farmers are the backbone of this country. We are so thankful for the food they bring to our tables, the gas they provide for our cars, and for the many products we use in our daily lives. We also understand the potential hazards farming brings to your life, so we created a safety tip guide for working on the farm.
Dress For Success
Dressing for every occasion is a big deal, especially if it means protecting yourself from hazardous machinery or chemicals. Securing loose clothes or dangling laces can easily prevent entanglement. Using proper protective gear for your ears, hands, and respiratory system can also be the fine line between injury and safety.
Think Smart
Half the battle is making wise decisions while using your farm equipment. As a rule of thumb, you should never use your farm equipment while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Placing you and your loved ones at risk is never a good idea.
Hand Signals For Communication
While wearing earmuffs is necessary for working with loud equipment, confusion from missed communication is not. Try using a hand signal system created by the American Society of Agricultural Engineers to safely send messages to fellow workers. You can find this 11 signal system on this website.
Rolling Over Protective Structures
Rolling over on the tractor can be a scary event, so make sure you have the proper precautions in place before you ride. Rolling Over Protective Structures are a must when it comes to tractor safety since roll overs account for 44% of all tractor fatalities. To keep from taking a tumble, you should also avoid driving on rough terrain or shifting ground.
Tractor Road Safety
Before towing a load to your neighbor’s farm, take a moment to assess the safety of your tractor. Is your slow moving vehicle emblem (SMV) clear and visible for other motorists to see? Are your flashers and lights bright enough to warn speeding cars? Along with looking over your rig, avoid traveling before dawn or after dusk to ensure safety of everyone on the road.
Know Your Chemicals
Common chemicals used for fuels, solvents, and insecticides can be very dangerous if not properly used. Read the safety label, health effects and directions before deciding if this product is best for your farm. Always use the proper protective gear and storage requirements to safely contain the chemicals.
Farm Equipment Maintenance
When was the last time you checked your farm equipment for cracks or wear? Checking the inflation on your tires can easily prevent a flat or a blowout. Also, looking for cracks or wear in your safety chains, tires, springs, and shackles can save you from paying major medical bills when a machine malfunctions.
We want to thank you again for all the wonderful products you provide for this country. If you or a loved one has experienced an injury from life on the farm, you may be entitled to compensation.
Contact us today so Bart Durham can fight for you!
