August 26, 2020
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griculture Offers t Safety Tips
me complacent with equip-
mplements are attached or perly and in good working
operation manuals and folance guidelines. ll guards and shields are in cure r changes in terrain such as or debris that may cause lovers eason is busy and can be y close attention to fatigue, nd illness. Do not rely on
stimulants to keep workers going or depressants to calm nerves. Never operate equipment while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Ensure safe transport of equipment on public roadways. o Be aware of motorists o Follow all rules of the road o Ensure all lights and reflectors are in place and good working order. A slow-moving vehicle emblem should be in place and visible from the rear. o Return equipment to transport mode. This makes it as narrow as possible o Check your route before transport to ensure equipment fits safely under power lines and over bridges or culverts that need to be crossed. o Download Safe Transportation of Farm Equipment in Alberta for more information Keep children safe this harvest season. Do not allow children around machinery. Tragedies occur when youngsters are in the path of equipment and operators have a restricted view, or when they are playing in a worksite with hazards such as grain augers.
News Advertiser PAGE 11
Producers Urged to Remove Headers Before Transporting Equipment Michelle Pinon News Advertiser Safety is top of mind as the count down to harvest is on. Darwin Ullery, Director of Agricultural and Utility Services for the County of Minburn, is urging producers to remove headers before moving equipment onto the fields. Ullery says the size of the headers, usually between 35 and 40 feet long, is double the width of county roads, and that can present challenges to motorists as they have to find an approach or alternate road if they are at an intersection to pull over. Of course, the danger and risks increase after it turns dark. He suggests at the very least to have a pilot car to proceed to the next intersection to warn motorists and help control traffic. Even though the county does not have a bylaw in place prohibiting the transportation of headers on equipment, he
Hay Fires News Advertiser Ensure hay is within the proper moisture content ranges based on type of hay and baling method. Bales should be periodically probed to test for above normal temperatures. Temperatures up to 140°F degrees are acceptable, however
once temperatures exceed 150°F degrees further steps should be taken to provide better air circulation. Once temperatures exceed 175°F degrees, a fire is imminent or already present near the probe. Call 911 and have the fire department on hand BEFORE moving hay bales. Temperatures in excess of 200°F indicate a fire is present at or near the probe. NEVER walk on top of hot bales, cavities may have developed inside of the bales from the fire creating a potentially fatal collapse situation.
recommends the removal of them for transportation even if it takes an extra 15-20 minutes to remove them, and even if it is only for a short distance of two to three miles.
