Farm Safety Checklist & Tips
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Farm Safety Checklist and Tips
Farming is one of the most dangerous jobs in America. Among the many dangers of farming, is the threat of electric shock. With everything a farmer has on their mind, it can be difficult to remember electric safety. Safe Electricity has a quick checklist of safety considerations for farmers
to be aware of before they enter the field.
- Keep machinery, equipment and yourself 10 feet away from overhead power lines in all directions, at all times.
- Make a plan each morning. Know where power lines are, and how you plan to stay clear of them.
- Use a spotter to help you stay clear of power lines when you are operating large machinery.
- Power lines begin to sag over the years. If sagging power lines are in your way, do not raise them. Call your utility to fix the power lines and raise them high enough for you to work.
- Weather should be a consideration in your daily plans. Keep in mind that tall objects could be blown out of control by the wind, and the particles in water are good conductors of electricity. Some activities are not appropriate for a damp or windy day.
- If you are on equipment that becomes entangled in power lines, do not step off the equipment. When you step off the equipment, you become the path to ground and receive an electric shock that could be fatal. Wait for utility professionals to shut of electricity to the power line, and confirm it is safe to exit equipment.
- Be sure everyone you are working with knows proper safety procedures, and emergency contacts.