There have been numerous accidents in recent times that call for grain bin training. Case in point: this farmer from Pennsylvania. According to a report from AG Daily, the farmer was working on a truck when he noticed something amiss. So, he entered the grain bin. Thankfully, a colleague immediately found him and called for help.
Cases such as this are becoming more common in farming. Thankfully, there are classes that teach the basics of grain bin safety, but not all workers are given the opportunity to learn them. However, your workers need to be familiar with the dangers of working near or in a grain bin, so they never find themselves in a dangerous situation.
Here are some of the pointers of grain bin training:
- Only enter the bin when necessary. If you must, practice precautions: ask for permission, tell someone you’re going in, and make sure this observer is someone you can trust with your life. After all, it only takes 90 seconds for you to die in case you are engulfed. This is why you need someone experienced watching guard over you as you enter the grain bin.
- Next, make sure you have prepared accordingly before going in. Grain bin training dictates that the unloading equipment are locked out prior to entering the bin so that they can’t be accidentally turned on. Next, the oxygen level must be at a minimum of 19.5% before you enter. There should be a secure lifeline (such as a harness or a ladder) for everyone who is going to come in.
- Finally, have a plan. Your management should talk about lifesaving tips, such as crossing your arms in front of your chest—as well as a plan for training and rescue in case something goes amiss. You should also train and practice often to make sure everyone can perform their role in case of a crisis.
With grain bin training, your workers will know how to proceed in case of an emergency. Of course, this can be prevented by using high-quality products such as the ones that are offered by KC Supply. Click here to know more about our products.