On behalf of OSU Extension Williams County, I want to wish you and your family a safe and happy planting season.
Below is a list of reminders to keep in mind during this busy season compiled by Union County OSU Extension Educator Wayne Dellinger and Dee Jepsen, PhD of the Department of Food, Agricultural, and Biological Engineering. You can learn more about spring farm safety here.
- Be completely acquainted with the equipment you are operating. Read the manual and be comfortable with its operation. Ensure others operating your equipment are competent as well.
- Make sure all safety guards, shields, and access doors are in place. If one is removed for service, put it back again when complete. If you purchased a used piece of equipment, do a check to make sure all safety devices are present.
- Never service or repair a piece of equipment while it is running. Make sure no one else around has the opportunity to start the equipment while you are working on it.
- When using ladders, place them as close as possible to the equipment, so that you don’t over-extend your reach. Do not use the top 3 rungs of an extension ladder – or the top surface of a step ladder – to climb higher.
- Keep the access stairs and operator’s platforms clear of tools and other items while performing maintenance on tractors and machinery. Slips and falls are common injuries while working in the shop as you mount and dismount the equipment. And refrain from jumping off equipment.
- Keep your shop and working areas free of clutter and debris. An organized shop is also a safer shop. Check out this video here for a quick commercial on farm clutter.
- Keep all children, pets, and others away from equipment while in operation or moving in barn yard and NO extra riders.
- Ensure all lights and reflective material are in working order and in good condition before operating tractors and equipment on public roadways. Be attentive and defensive. Use an escort vehicle and move equipment at off peak motor vehicle traffic times if possible.
- Most importantly, take care of yourself! Don’t get in a hurry. Stay hydrated and take breaks.