With spring and summer comes farm work. As the seasons move forth, it is important to keep safety in mind. Research shows over 700 farmers are killed a year and 120,000 are injured.
The most obvious precautions are around the handling of large equipment and dangerous chemicals. Make sure the guard handles of equipment are in the right position. At the same time when you are using dangerous chemicals be sure to follow all directions.
The National Safety Council has released helpful hints to follow:
* Develop a safety and health plan tailored to your operations, family and employees. Such plans include a hazardous communications program for family and employees, a lock-out tagÂout program for equipment, a fire protection plan, chemical storage plan, farm safety rules and regulations, an emergency field communications plan, and a plan in the event a serious farm injury or death occurs. All plans should be committed to writing and reviewed annually.
* Train your help, inform them of your written plans and rules, enforce farm safety rules and see that personal protective equipment is cared for and worn.
* Carry out regular safety inspections of equipment and facilities. Make necessary repairs and keep guards and shielding on.
* Buy quality products, then use them and care for them as directed in product manuals, labels or as instructed by product suppliers.
* Keep children off and away from machinery. Give youngsters chores they can safely handle based on their age and ability.
* Take care of your health and respect the limitations of mind and body. Take action to reduce stress. Resolve to get enough rest and take work breaks to help reduce fatigue.
* Keep informed about safety, health and environmental issues. Attend local events about them.
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