Nebraska corn groups urge caution for farmers, drivers ahead of harvest

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — Officials with the Nebraska Corn Board and Nebraska Corn Growers Association say agriculture ranks among the most dangerous industries to work in.

Among farm workers, they say tractor turnovers are the leading cause of death while on the job.

As many farmers may be eager to capitalize on favorable weather, the organizations urge them to take appropriate precautions before getting to work.

“We want to get as much done as possible when the weather is right which makes it easy to get in a hurry,” Nebraska Corn Board Chairman Jay Reiners said in a press release. “However, we encourage farmers to take that extra second for safety because extra time and caution can really save lives.”

People driving through rural areas are also advised to keep an eye out for farmers moving equipment. And farmers should ensure their equipment has the appropriate symbols and warning lights.

In addition to practicing caution on the road, the organizations provided a list of other safety recommendations for this harvest season:

Equipment Safety

• Be careful when approaching harvest equipment. Approach from the front and gain eye contact with the operator before approaching.
• Ensure the harvesting equipment is fully stopped and disengaged before climbing onto a vehicle.
• Do not place yourself near any unguarded or otherwise running machinery.
• Avoid pinch points between equipment – such as tractors with grain wagons. Visibility can be limited, and serious injury can occur.

Entanglement Hazard

• Entanglement hazards can happen very quickly.
• Do not ever try to unplug any equipment without turning off its power.
• Never pull or try to remove plugged plants from an operating machine.
• Always keep shields in place to avoid snags and entanglement when working around equipment.

Fall Hazard

• Be careful climbing on and off equipment.
• Be extremely careful when working in wet or slippery conditions.
• Keep all walkways and platforms free of tools, dust, debris or other obstacles. Clean all walkways and platforms before use.
• Wear clothing that is well fitting and not baggy or loose. Also wear proper non-slip, closed-toe shoes.
• Use grab bars when mounting or dismounting machinery. Face machinery when dismounting and never jump from equipment.
• Never dismount from a moving vehicle.

Fire Prevention

• Carry a fire extinguisher with you in your vehicle (A-B-C, 5 or 10 pound).
• Remove dust and buildup from equipment. Check bearings regularly to prevent overheating and chance of fire.

Grain Wagon Safety

• Be careful to never exceed maximum weight limits. As weight increases, grain wagons can be more difficult to control.
• Load grain wagons evenly to distribute weight to prevent weaving or instability across the grain wagon.
• Inspect grain wagon tires and replace any worn or cracked tires.

Grain Bin Safety

• If entering a bin, wear a harness attached to a secure rope.
• Never work alone.
• Never allow children to get too close or inside the bin.
• Wear a dust filter or respirator when working in bins.
• Stay out of bins when equipment is running.