Tractor Safety: Precautions for Agricultural Workers

Tractor accidents are one of the main causes of farming deaths. Losing control of the equipment can result in the operator or bystanders being run over and crushed. Use these tips as reminders on how to prevent injuries on the job.

General Precautions

• Read the instruction manual and receive the proper training before operating any machinery.
• Inspect the equipment before use.
• Inflate the tires and set the wheel treads wide.
• Do a safety check on the guarding.
• Repair any hydraulic leaks
• Ensure that the brakes are equalized so the tractor does not favor one side.
• Equip machinery with proper fire extinguishers and first-aid supplies.
• Display all required safety signs.
• Use rollover protective structures (ROPS) and wear a seatbelt in the event of an overturn.
• Fit the tractor for a fall-on protective structure (FOPS) to prevent getting hit from falling debris.
• Start the engine in an open space to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Learn the terrain before riding over it and plan accordingly to prevent accidents.
• Wear the appropriate apparel and hearing protection (earplugs or earmuffs).
• Do not carry passengers under any circumstances unless there is a safe, specified seat designed and installed by the manufacturer. 

During-Use Precautions

• Get on and off the facing the machine and avoid inadvertently hitting the controls.
• Adjust the seat so that the controls are easily accessible.
• Drive at slow speeds and remain in control reduce speeds when breaking and turning.
• Descend extremely slowly on sloping ground.
• Do not jump off a moving tractor—climb down on the left side when the tractor is parked.
• Use the parking brake while the machine is not in use.
• Refuel only when the engine is off.