6 Farm Safety Tips to be Aware Of

The 6 most important tips on the security of the farm

As worthwhile for agriculture, there are certain risks that you enter into when you have to do with nature, cattle and heavy machines. And whether you are a lifelong farmer or a brand new in this work, there are certain safety precautions that you can take to ensure that everything runs smoothly on your farm.

1. Train all on Farm security protocols

Agriculture often includes several people who work together. It is therefore important that everyone – whether they are employees, family members or seasonal workers – violates the fundamental security of agricultural farm.

Training should cover:

• Proper equipment
• Emergency plans
• First aid procedure
• Safe handling of cattle and chemicals

Make security training to a regular part of operating your farm, especially if new employees join. Give clear instructions, demonstrations and opportunities to ask questions. Even if someone has agricultural experience beforehand, every farm works differently and has to know their protocols.

If everyone on the farm on the same side is on security, they significantly reduce the risk of accidents.

2. Set rules for the use of heavy devices

Heavy agricultural devices – such as tractors, mixtures and loaders – are of crucial importance for the operation of your farm – but it can also be one of the most dangerous aspects of the job. Clear, consistent safety rules for the operation of these devices are not negotiable.

The most important rules include:

• Only trained people should operate heavy devices.
• Perform regular maintenance and inspections to ensure that machines are in good condition.
• Use seat belts and other safety functions.

In addition, it is important to use heavy devices with caution, especially when wearing heavy loads or using attachments. As Bobby Ford Tractor and Equipment explains: “Drive slower and slower when you have attachments or wear heavy loads. The additional weight can move your balance and increase the stop distances. “

If you carry out additional care and security protocols, you can minimize the risks associated with heavy devices on the farm. This can ensure that everyone remains safer at all times.

3. Protect against chemical dangers

From pesticides to fertilizers, farms often rely on chemicals to maximize productivity. However, the improper handling of these substances can be serious health risks.

To remain safe, you always store chemicals in a safe, well-ventilated area of ​​cattle and food supply. Label all containers clearly and keep safety data sheets (SDS) as a reference at hand. You also want to wear personal protective equipment (PSA) such as gloves, protective glasses and masks when dealing with chemicals.

While this should be a matter of course, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the application and disposal of the manufacturer. If spills occur, clean them immediately with suitable safety measures to avoid contamination.

4. Stay vigilant in the cattle

Working with animals is fun and rewarding, but it is also unpredictable. Even the calmest cattle can react aggressively or unpredictable if it is frightened or stressed. Therefore, it is advisable to move slowly and to speak calmly when they approached the animals.

For the best results (and the maximum security for everyone involved), avoid sudden movements or loud noises that you could scare. Learn to use the corresponding obstacles, slides and gates to keep control.

If you have a large team of people, train the workers to recognize signs of excitement in cattle, such as increased cocks, tightened ears or paws on the ground.

5. Keep clear sidewalks and work areas

Unresolved work areas are an accident that is waiting to be passed. Excursions, trips and falls are among the most common agricultural injuries that are often caused by uneven ground, spilled materials or poorly stored tools.

Make it to the habit:

• Hold the paths of ruins and tools.
• Inspect the sidewalks regularly and repair the uneven or damaged surfaces.
• Leave the spills immediately to avoid slipping dangers.

Organize tools and devices in barns, sheds and other work areas so that you can easily access without creating disorder. The right lighting is a large part of it. Make sure that all areas of work and sidewalks are well lit to reduce the risk of accidents, especially during the early morning or late when visibility can be low.

6. Have an emergency plan

Despite their efforts, accidents can still take place. Therefore, it is important to have a well thought -out emergency plan. This plan should cover:

• How to quickly contact the emergency services and provide your farm precise instructions.
• Locations of kits with first-haid, fire extinguishers and other safety equipment.
• Procedure for evacuation of humans and animals in the event of fire, floods or other disasters.

Make sure you are not the only one who knows the security plan. You need all workers and family members to train in the emergency plan. Better still, have the plan documented and published in visible places around the farm. You may not have to use the plan for years, but it will be necessary at some point – and you will be happy that you have done the footwork to ensure that your team knows what to do.

Put together everything

Life on a farm is as cute as it can, but it is also full of potential dangers and problems for those who are not proactive to practice the right security standards. Fortunately, there are ways to prevent larger breakdowns – and this starts implementing these security work.