Safety Is Silly
Apr 13, 2011
Mother nature is finally cooperating. The sun is shinning and for many parts of farm country soil tempuratures are high enough that planting has either begun or is finished. This is an exciting time for all of agriculture.
Farmers who have been pacing in anticipation for weeks are now rushing from field to field to either manage the planting or plant their crops. It is important to remember safety during this buzzing time. Whether its wearing your seatbelt while rushing from field to field or just being certain to pay attention to the road and not the phone, road safety is vital.
The majority of accidents involving farmers happen on blacktops and farm roads during planting and harvset because of all the hub and bub. Roads that are calm and quiet for the majority of the year see more traffic during the planting and harvest time than the other seasons combined, farmers are tired, excited and super busy, and the general public isn't used to seeing tractors on the road. That can be a very dangerous equation.
How can you be sure you stay safe on the farm?
- 20 mph is the maximum speed for towed equipment without brakes.
- Be sure tractor is properly counterweighted and attachments are secure.
- Sunrise to sunset is the safest time to move farm equipment on public roads.
- Always be sure brake pedals are locked together and brakes are properly adjusted.
- Fit tractors with rollover protective structures and always wear a seat belt.
- Each time you hitch, make sure the tractor matches its load.
- Be physically and mentally fit before operating a tractor. Fatigue, stress, medication, alcohol and drugs can cause you to lose focus on safe tractor operation. Take breaks.
Don't assume that safety is silly, do your part to ensure that not only you and yours are safe but that you create a safe community too!
What farm safety procedures do you impliment on your farm? How do you ensure that everyone uses safe practices? Do you value road safety?
