enjoyable in a clean, well organized environment. • Keep feed throwdown holes covered when not in use. Install guard rails around clean-out openings in multi- floored poultry houses.
•Spread sand and/or salt on icy surfaces if work has to be done in the vicinity. If the weather is particularly bad, consider putting the job off until conditions improve.
• Keep steps and platforms of tractors and other equipment clean and dry. Take the time to clean off mud, ice, snow, manure, grease, and other debris that can accumulate on these surfaces. Don't carry tools, chains, etc. on the platform.
• Slip-resistant safety footwear is a must for all farm workers.
The above are but a few examples of “good housekeeping” practices that should be followed to minimize “slip and trip” hazards. You can probably think of several others. It is really important to develop an awareness of potential hazards, and take the necessary steps to eliminate them before someone gets hurt. Ladder safety is often ignored. Avoiding a serious fall not only means making sure the ladder is set up properly and is appropriate for the intended use. It also means following the Three-Point Contact Rule — two hands and one foot or two feet and one hand on the rungs at all times. Everyone should be discouraged from carrying tools and materials on a ladder. Use a tool belt and/or a hoist. As with other equipment, a ladder should always be in good condition and kept free of mud, grease and ice.
EXTRA CARE AROUND MACHINERY As mentioned, slips, trips and falls around farm equipment can have fatal consequences. We've already stressed the importance of keeping steps and platforms clean. Here are some additional points to consider when working with machinery.
• Never jump from a tractor. There is always the danger of catching clothing on pedals, lever, or other protruding parts. You could land on an uneven surface and injure your ankles, legs, or back.
• Always use handrails, handholds, and steps to mount or dismount tractors and self-propelled equipment. Follow the Three-Point Contact rule —either two hands and one foot, or one hand and two feet on the machine at all times. • Never try to operate equipment
well clear of the machinery while it is running. Try to maintain good footing in the surrounding area.
THINK, THEN ACT Most falls are needless and preventable accidents. You and your employees need to be alert on the job, and develop awareness of what could constitute a slip and trip hazard. It is vital to think about actions before you take them. That way, you'll be more likely to recognize hazards, and take the steps necessary to eliminate or avoid them.
Finally, let's take a moment to review some of the Dos and Don’ts of fall prevention. DO:
Keep aisles and walkways free of clutter.
from any position other than the seat • Maintain safe operating speeds, and take a break when you are tired. • Never allow passengers to ride along. They are much more likely to fall from a moving machine. • Always shut the power off and pocket the key before making repairs and adjustments. That way, if someone does fall onto the equipment, they won't become entangled.
• Take extra care when operating stationary equipment (grain augers, generators, grinder-mixers, etc.). Stay
Wear slip-resistant footwear. Use the Three-Point Contact rule when mounting or dismounting equipment and ladders.
them.
Think about actions before you take DON’T:
Leave oil slicks uncovered. Jump from a tractor platform. Allow tools to accumulate on a tractor's platform.
Leave the tools on the workbench when you finish using them.
— Canadian Agricultural Safety Association
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www.AgSafeBC.ca British Columbia Berry Grower • Spring 2016 21
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