Farmers are going to be out working hard in their fields during the upcoming months. During this time, each one of them needs to ensure they are taking the steps necessary to remain as safe as possible. The equipment used during the farming process can be very dangerous.
Many farms in this country are family owned and operated. With this in mind, it is often family members who are showing each other how to use equipment. It is imperative that no corners are cut when it comes to safety. In fact, around 85 percent of tractor accidents involve a member of the family.
Here are a few things to consider as you farm the fields this season:
Dress for the job
Make sure that you think about the equipment you are going to use when you get dressed in the morning. Loose clothing and long shirts can sometimes get caught in the moving parts. This can pull you into the machine and cause serious injuries or even death. Even though it doesn’t have anything to do with the machines, make sure that you are also dressing for the weather. Dehydration and heat stroke are real concerns during warmer months and frostbite is possible when it gets cold out.
Ensure you are ready to work
You must be mentally and physically ready to work. Avoid consuming alcohol while you are at work. Don’t try to operate the machinery while you are too tired. If you feel like something is amiss, it is best to stop until you are able to work. This is especially true if you have others working near you since being run over by a tractor or other piece of equipment is likely going to end with an injury or death.
Review necessary safety protocol
Farm workers can’t be expected to read the manuals for the equipment they use. Instead, they should be instructed and trained to use them. This shouldn’t be a one and done event. Instead, continually remind them about important safety points.
React appropriately if an accident occurs
Try to remain calm if an accident in the field does occur. You will likely feel an adrenaline rush and might be upset, but try to think clearly so that you can get the help necessary for whatever injuries occurred. This might mean having to render first aid while you wait on emergency responders to arrive. Above all, remember that the human life is the most important focal point of your efforts.