PURCHASING AND HANDLING OF FARM MACHINERIES AND FARM VEHICLES FOR EFFECTIVE OPERATIONS

Accidents involving farm machineries and vehicles cause numerous injuries and fatalities to farm operators. The majority of these could be prevented by taking the proper precautions listed below for effective operations of the machines and handling.

Purchasing of farm machines

Regulations require that all machinery, vehicles and equipment must be safe to use with the dangerous parts properly guarded from operators. They must also be suitable for the tasks they’ll be used for. When you purchase a machine, it should carry a ‘CE’ mark. This shows that the machine has been built to the minimum legal safety requirements. You should also receive a certificate of conformity that also confirms safety requirements of the intended machine.

You should also receive its operator’s manual, a workshop manual and details on noise levels. If noise levels exceed the legal limits, then properly fitted ear protection should be provided. All of these fall within the provision and use of work equipment regulations.

Using your farm machines

When using your farm machinery and vehicles in and outside the farm, you must be sure that they are always well maintained, repaired and in good working order. Regular maintenance checks should be carried out according to the individual manufacturers’ guidelines provided.

Avoiding accidents in the farm

To help avoid farming accidents involving vehicles, machinery or other farm equipment, it is recommended that you keep them well maintained and repaired at all times. Seatbelts (or lap belts) should be worn to prevent you from being thrown from the vehicle during operations with the farm equipment or machines. You should also not carry any loose tools in the vehicle cab, as these can be dangerous too in the event of a crash.

Dangerous parts of farm machines

Vehicle and machinery parts can cause damage if not properly maintained or regularly replaced. Many farm machines have dangerous parts such as drive shafts, belts, pulleys, augers, conveyors and other moving components which cut, chop or process materials. These can cause severe injuries if people come into contact with them during operation of the machines, so it is essential that they are properly guarded. Machines should always be made safe before attempting to deal with blockages or other problems associated with it.

Training of farm machines

Training in how to operate equipment safely, the use of personal protective equipment and the procedures required to work safely is vital. It is also a legal requirement. Recognized standards of formal training and competence are normally required for using chainsaws, tree work, applying pesticides, riding all-terrain vehicles, operating fork lift trucks and telescopic materials handlers, sheep dipping and first aid.