Iowa State University Extension
A common
yet often tragic hazard during harvest is entrapment in grain.
Although
this cause of death is often overlooked by farm workers, 7
Iowans suffocated in grain during the last two years. Nationwide,
more than 20 people are killed in grain accidents every year.
Fortunately,
many stories have a happy ending: the victims survive. However,
it only takes seconds for people to become helplessly trapped
in flowing grain. A high-capacity conveyor can move enough
grain to submerge a 6-foot-tall man in only 15 seconds. Proper
rescue techniques are essential.
Better
yet, avoid the risks of entrapment altogether.
Always
shut off power and lock controls in the off position before
anyone enters a bin or wagon.
Let
someone else know where you are at all times.
Keep
children away from grain handling areas.
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
news release 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. Publication date: September 1992.
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