1. Pre-Operation Safety

  • Training and Certification: Ensure operators are trained and familiar with the specific machinery and its controls.
  • Inspect Machinery: Conduct a thorough inspection before use, checking for:
    • Fluid leaks (oil, fuel, hydraulic fluid).
    • Loose or damaged parts.
    • Proper tire inflation or track condition.
    • Functionality of lights, brakes, and safety mechanisms.
  • Read the Manual: Familiarize yourself with the equipment’s operation manual, including emergency procedures.

2. Personal Safety

  • Wear Appropriate PPE:
    • Sturdy, non-slip footwear.
    • Gloves for handling equipment.
    • Hearing protection in noisy environments.
    • Safety glasses or goggles to protect from debris.
    • High-visibility clothing, especially in low-light conditions.
  • Avoid Loose Clothing: Prevent entanglement in moving parts by avoiding loose clothing, jewelry, or unsecured long hair.

3. Operating the Machinery

  • Maintain Stability:
    • Use the machine on level ground whenever possible.
    • Avoid steep slopes or wet, unstable surfaces.
  • Follow Speed Limits: Operate at a safe speed, especially in confined areas or around obstacles.
  • Use Seatbelts: Always wear seatbelts, especially when operating tractors or machinery with Rollover Protection Systems (ROPS).
  • Avoid Overloading: Do not exceed the machinery’s weight or capacity limits.

4. Awareness of Surroundings

  • Clear the Area: Ensure no one is near the machinery, especially children or animals, before starting.
  • Communication: Use hand signals, radios, or other communication tools to coordinate with workers in the area.
  • Blind Spots: Be aware of the machinery’s blind spots and use mirrors or cameras if available.
  • Overhead Hazards: Watch for power lines, tree branches, or other overhead obstacles when operating tall machinery.

5. Transport Safety

  • Secure Attachments: Ensure all attachments are properly secured and locked before transport.
  • Use Safety Lights: Equip machinery with functioning lights, reflectors, or a slow-moving vehicle (SMV) emblem when traveling on public roads.
  • Follow Traffic Laws: Adhere to local regulations regarding farm machinery on public roads.

6. Maintenance Safety

  • Turn Off Machinery: Always shut down the engine and disconnect power before performing maintenance or clearing blockages.
  • Use Lockout/Tagout Procedures: Ensure the machinery cannot be started while being serviced.
  • Stabilize Equipment: Use proper jacks or stands when working under heavy machinery.

7. Emergency Preparedness

  • First Aid Kit: Keep a well-stocked first aid kit accessible near the machinery or in the tractor cab.
  • Emergency Shut-Off: Know the location of the emergency shut-off or kill switch for quick action in an emergency.
  • Emergency Contacts: Have emergency numbers readily available and communicate them to all workers.

8. Avoid Fatigue

  • Take Breaks: Long hours can lead to fatigue and impaired judgment. Rest periodically to stay alert.
  • Stay Hydrated: Drink water and avoid dehydration, especially during extended work periods.

9. Specific Machinery Precautions

  • PTO Safety (Power Take-Off):
    • Keep PTO shields in place to prevent entanglement.
    • Never step over a rotating PTO shaft.
  • Hydraulic Systems:
    • Inspect hoses for leaks and avoid touching high-pressure leaks.
    • Release hydraulic pressure before servicing.
  • Augers and Harvesters:
    • Keep guards and shields in place.
    • Never reach into moving parts.

10. Post-Operation Safety

  • Shut Down Properly:
    • Turn off the engine and remove the key to prevent unauthorized use.
    • Engage the parking brake and lower all attachments to the ground.
  • Secure Storage:
    • Store machinery in designated areas away from walkways or active fields.
    • Keep attachments and tools organized to prevent tripping hazards.