A brief refresher to keep you and others safe during harvest
By Diego Flammini
Assistant Editor, North American Content
Farms.com
If you haven’t already, you’ll soon be gearing up for the fall harvest.
It’s a very busy time as you want to finish as quickly as possible in order to start thinking about the next things needing to be done on the farm.
But one aspect of harvest that can’t be taken for granted is safety, and here are some tips to ensure you, your employees and the public remain safe during this very important time.
Perform a thorough check
It may be beneficial to take a few minutes and walk around the equipment to ensure all of the guards and shields are in place and secure. You’ll also be able to spot and lights that need replacing and any other issues you may have otherwise overlooked.
It could be a good idea to make sure the oil and other fluids are properly filled.
Know your route
Are you taking your equipment onto public roads? If so, it may be a good idea to familiarize yourself with the route. Were power lines added? Is there construction? Knowing exactly what you’re in for on the roads could save headaches along the way.
Can motorists see you?
If you’re machinery is traveling on public roads, make sure all the lights, reflectors and slow moving vehicle signs are clean and visible.
Take a break
Harvesting is a marathon, not a sprint, and that can lead to long hours. Taking a break every so often to stretch your legs or even get a few minutes of shuteye can help you through the remainder of the day and keep you sharp.
These are only a few strategies to consider for a safe harvest. What are some other rules and tips you have on your farm when it comes to harvest safety?