Agricultural workers are at a serious risk of injury or death when installing, climbing into, fumigating, entering, filling or emptying a silo. Because of the nature of the conditions present, workers may be exposed to hazards such as a lack of oxygen, toxic gases and grain entrapment.

To reduce worker risk of injury, properly train workers and remind them frequently of the following safety recommendations:

• Avoid entering a silo/bin unless it is absolutely necessary.

• Complete tasks outside of the silo/bin whenever possible.
• Have a coworker close by in case of an emergency.
• Never smoke or cause sparks near a silo/bin, especially if the air humidity is low.
• Wear respiratory protection when appropriate.
• Stand at a safe distance when filling or emptying a silo/bin.
• Use an approved fall restraint system and harness when climbing a silo/bin.

• Ventilate a fumigating silo before entering.
• Conduct regular safety inspections of silos/bin.

For more farm and ranch safety tips, contact Paul Hall & Associates Insurance today.