Iowa State University Extension

(Time: 45)

As you bale hay and prepare to harvest corn or soybeans, think about safety. August begins the most dangerous time on Iowa farms. Stress and fatigue can make you less wary.

You also are exposed to energy-sapping heat, Iowa humidity, intense sun, dust, chaff, annoying insects, and noise. Long hours spent trying to finish the harvest before rain can result in stress, fatigue, and perhaps a few shortcuts to save time. Add powerful machines used only a few weeks out of the year, and you have a potentially dangerous situation.

Mentally prepare yourself for harvest. Maintain, respect, and know how to operate your equipment. You have the power to handle large quantities of crops, but you have to remember how to use it safely.

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: July 1992.