Frederick Jace
If you are one of the 20 million Americans that work in agriculture, you probably already know the importance of safety all too well. It’s no secret that farming can be a hazardous occupation, with a higher rate of accidents and injury than almost any other industry.
That’s why it is imperative to follow up-to-date safety guidelines to keep you and your colleagues away from danger on and off the fields. Whether you are new to farming or an old hand, it never hurts to undergo the occasional safety refresher. With that in mind, here are the top safety tips for farming equipment usage in 2022.
- Use Quality, Well-Maintained Equipment
Any guide on farming safety will usually tell you right out the gate that having equipment in tip-top condition is the most impactful thing you can do to improve safety. Granted, working on the farm teaches us how to get the most out of every tool and stretch the life of equipment out.
However, while thriftiness is important, safety comes first. For example, this expert guide to planting equipment explains how to keep your planting tools in good condition and how to find the right replacement equipment when it is needed.
- Read the Manual
This might sound like an obvious way to stay safe, but it bears repeating. Many people fail to realize that every single model and make of equipment operates differently. No two brands of tractors are the same.
Read your equipment manual from front to back so that you know exactly where the risks lie and how to reduce these when using your equipment on the fields. This is one of those simple tips for farmers that you cannot afford to ignore.
- Stay Compliant
Many country folks are not huge fans of government regulations, but they are there for a reason. The USDA has an extensive list of safety regulations and rules covering every farming activity imaginable.
Safety protocols for all farming equipment must be followed to the letter. If you are found to be non-compliant, you will face legal action. This is designed to keep you and everyone on your farm safe from harm.
- Dress for the Job
Dressing for the job is one of the crucial farmer safety lessons that you do not want to learn the hard way. Wearing the wrong clothes when operating farming equipment can lead to some of the most horrific injuries imaginable. Avoid long, flowing garments or accessories of any kind. Keep your hair tied up and wear tough, all-terrain shoes.
- Self-Care is Key
Finally, do not forget to look after yourself. First and foremost, this means getting enough sleep and making sure you always use farm equipment in a good mental state. When you are tired, accidents happen. Never operate farm equipment after consuming alcohol, eat well, and be alert at all times. Self-care will also make your job much, much easier, and more enjoyable.
Did You Find These Farming Safety Tips Helpful?
Did you find these essential farming safety tips helpful? If so, there is plenty more where that came from. Make sure to consult our dedicated Health hub to learn more about staying safe and healthy in your job.
