Keep safety top of mind when cleaning out grain bins
A key reason people become entrapped in grain is that grain stored in bins is out of condition. A farmer enters the bin to break down the crusted grain and tragedy strikes, grain comes tumbling down and the person is engulfed. If grain is kept in good condition, no one has to enter the bin, reducing the risk of entrapment. Making sure grain bins are clean and as ready as possible to be loaded reduces the risk of spoilage and increases the profitability as well as the safety of the farming operation.
ADVERTISEMENT
Cleaning out grain bins isn’t difficult, but it should be done to maintain the quality of grain. It is also a good time to inspect mechanical components and clean up around the bin.
First, check the area outside the bins. Garbage or clutter should be cleaned up and properly disposed of. Garbage and other debris not only pose tripping and fire hazards, but these items can make loading and unloading grain more difficult. Simple efforts to keep bin areas tidy can greatly improve the safety around grain bins.
ADVERTISEMENT
Even spilled grain can pose a hazard. Spilled grain attracts rodents and insects, which in turn create health hazards through their droppings and urine. Try to keep the area free of spilled grain as much as possible. If your bin has any mechanical components (aeration systems), inspect any wiring or other components for fraying, corrosion or cracks. It’s also a good idea to check for signs of rodents in these areas. These critters can damage wiring quickly. If you do find signs of rodents, wear appropriate personal protective equipment when cleaning any droppings or urine and take appropriate steps to rid the area of these animals.
It’s essential to remember that entering a grain bin should never be done alone. A trained watch person with a means of communication (two-way radio, cellphone etc.) needs to be present outside the bin. This support person needs to have constant visual or voice contact with the person entering the grain bin.
Personal protective equipment (PPE) and the proper equipment should be available and organized before the task is started. A safety harness and lifeline, eye and respiratory personal protective equipment are all essential pieces of equipment. Make sure all your PPE is in good condition and fits well. This equipment isn’t just a “nice to have,” it’s essential.
A component of safely entering bins is performing a lock out. If the bin is equipped with a bin sweep or other moving components, the controls need to be locked out in the off position. This involves locking the controls with either a third-party lock or the one associated with the machinery. Another good idea is to write a note indicating the bin is being cleaned — that way anyone that comes by knows why the controls have been locked out.
Simple operating procedures can help make tasks like bin cleaning safer and more efficient. Visit www.tecodryer.com and check out the resources including toolbox talks on topics like preparing bins, operating portable augers, transporting oversized loads and more.