Iowa
State University Extension
(Time:
60)
On a
late summer afternoon, a farm worker entered a 10-foot-deep
manure pit on his family's farm for repairs. While attempting
to climb out of the pit, the man was overcome by deadly gases
and fell to the bottom of the pit. His 15-year-old nephew
then tried to rescue him. He also collapsed. The boy's father,
his cousin, and his grandfather, who owned the farm, entered
the pit one by one, trying to rescue the boy and his uncle.
Tragically, all five family members died.
This
tragic accident happened in another state four years ago.
Sadly, it's not unusual. Multiple deaths are common in accidents
that involve manure pits. Workers quickly become victims.
Rescuers also become victims.
Take
proper precautions whenever you enter a manure pit. Always
assume that deadly gases are present. And make sure that everyone
in your operation, especially children, knows to stay away
from manure pit systems at all times, even when the pits are
empty.
If someone
is found unconscious in a manure pit, contact an ambulance
or local emergency medical service immediately. The caller
should provide as many details as possible so that technicians
bring proper equipment.
Remember
that accidents that involve manure pits are preventable. Keep
a tragedy from occurring in your operation.
For
more information about safety in and around manure storage
facilities, contact your local extension office. We'll give
you a new SAFE FARM publication just for asking.
Disclaimer
and Reproduction Information: Information in NASD does not represent
NIOSH policy. Information included in NASD appears by permission
of the author and/or copyright holder. More
NASD Review: 04/2002
This
radio public service announcement script was distributed by
Iowa State University Extension as part of the Safe Farm Program.
Safe Farm promotes health and safety in agriculture. It is funded
by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health,
Iowa State University, and a network of groups that serve Iowa
farm workers and their families. Distribution date: November
1993.
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