June is National Safety Month. Agriculture is one of the most important founding industries of this country. Unfortunately, it also comes with plenty of safety hazards. Let’s take a look at the top safety concerns in agriculture and easy tips to help employees avoid injuries on the job.
Rising Temperatures
Depending on where you are in the country, summers can be long, hot, and humid. Those who are over-exposed to these conditions can experience heat exhaustion or even heat stroke, which can be fatal. Staying adequately hydrated, working in the shade or during cooler parts of the day when possible, and taking frequent breaks help reduce the risk of experiencing a heat-related medical condition. It is relevant to note that employees who have not built up a tolerance for hot and humid environments are at a higher risk for developing these conditions.
Agriculture Equipment
The agriculture industry is known for its use of heavy equipment, including tractors, skid steers, balers, cultivators, and so much more. The sheer size and power of the machinery make them inherently one of the most significant safety hazards on any operation. Add in environmental elements, and the safety risk increases. To reduce the risk of injury, make sure all equipment and machinery are in proper working order and provide adequate training for new employees, emphasizing the importance of always staying focused when operating equipment.
Livestock, Poultry, and Horses
Farm animals can be easy-going, loving, docile creatures, but they can also be a safety hazard if you aren’t paying attention. For example, a mature dairy cow can weigh upwards of 1,500 pounds. Finding yourself pinned between one of these animals and a solid fence can spell disaster. Another example is that both cattle and horses can kick. Failing to be aware of this or not paying attention can result in serious injuries.
It is vital to train employees on livestock behavior. This includes how to read animals, move them from one place to another, and avoid sticky situations.
Stray Voltage
For specific agriculture sectors, electricity plays a vital role in keeping animals contained, supplying feed through automatic feeders, and milking parlors. Stray voltage is not only harmful to livestock but, if strong enough, a hazard to employees. Teach employees to identify the signs of stray voltage, which can include animals avoiding a particular area, twitching their tails, dancing, kicking milkers off, refusing to drink water, etc. Do not hesitate to call a licensed electrician if you cannot trace down and resolve the issue on your own.
Chemicals
Chemicals play a crucial role in the agriculture industry. Pesticides are useful for keeping bugs off crops. At the same time, formaldehyde is a common chemical in footbaths to prevent foot rot in cattle. However, they can be very dangerous to employees who do not take the proper precautions. Signs of chemical poisoning include headaches, nausea, vomiting, light-headedness, dizziness, and even seizures.
To reduce the risk of chemical poisoning, be sure to provide the proper safety equipment. This includes gloves, masks, eye protection, etc. Extensively train employees on the proper handling and usage of all chemicals they may come in contact with.
Start Off on the Right Foot
Agriculture is a unique industry that is not a fit for everyone and these top safety concerns in agriculture are just the tip of the iceberg for the challenges employees may face. The key to minimizing the risk of injury to employees is to hire candidates who have an agriculture mindset. Morris Bixby is one of the leaders in agriculture staffing. We are dedicated to finding the perfect candidates to fit your personnel needs. Contact us today to get started!