With silage season now in full swing, safety should be a top priority for both farmers and contractors. Both need to bear in mind the risks associated with working long hours with few checks carried out on machinery.

The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) stated last year that farm vehicles and machinery account for the highest proportion of farm deaths and accidents (27%).

Here are a number of tips to help ensure farm and machinery safety.

Daily checks

It is vital that daily checks are carried out on the tractor before you begin work to ensure that everything is in good working order. This includes checking that all lights and indicators are functioning correctly. External PTO, lift arm controls and guards should also be thoroughly examined to ensure they are working.

When working with machines, take a few minutes to check for loose hydraulic pipes, belts and chains. This will help prevent accidents and minimise breakdowns.

Visibility

When operating a machine, it is vital that all windows in the cab are clean to enhance overall visibility from the driver’s seat. Ensure windows and mirrors are thoroughly cleaned regularly. New tractors now come with double mirrors. Mirrors should be maintained and set correctly for the operator. Any broken or twisted mirrors should be replaced immediately.

KEEP cab clear

Ensure tractor cab is clear of items such as chains, ropes, linkage balls and pins to allow safe use of brakes and clutch. Items on the floor have the potential to cause an accident.

Maintenance of machine

Regular maintenance of machinery is required to ensure they are safe to operate. Tractors must be started by a key, and engine stop control needs to be effective. Clean controls inside the cab are vital – they need to be clearly labelled and function correctly.

Steps of the machine need to be regularly cleaned to allow driver to safety exit.

Brakes should be inspected regularly to ensure they are working and balanced correctly.

The handbrake must be fully functional and adjusted when required.

Brakes must remain interlocked everywhere except in field work. Ensure the PTO can be turned on and off correctly inside and outside the machine. All guards and components must be maintained including hydraulics, PTO guards and hitches. Water and oil levels should be checked and be at a satisfactory level before beginning work.

Attaching implements

When attaching an implement, always fit it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Implements are attached to either the three-point linkage or drawbar mountings, depending on the type.

The height of the drawbar or three-point linkage should not be altered. Linkages need to be checked regularly, ensuring that stabiliser bars and safety pins are in the correct place and working properly.

Hitch system

When hitching, always use the right system depending on the type of implement. Always operate the hitch from inside controls. When hitching, never stand between or have your feet between the tractor and implement. Also ensure that supports like jacks or skids are properly maintained and used.

Be aware

Be aware of your surroundings. When operating a tractor, take time and make sure that you are fully aware of all the controls and their functions. When slowing down, lower gears gradually and gently apply brakes. Use mirrors when reversing and alert any bystanders by using the horn.

Inspection of Tyres

Ensure that machine tyres are of a high standard and that they are free from any slashes and cuts. Tyres with slashes are liable to burst out while operating which could lead to an accident. Carry out checks on tractor handling before beginning work.

Electricity

Beware of danger from overhead electric lines. Machinery or tractors should not be operated where they could come in contact with overhead power lines. The use of autosteer and global positioning satellite (GPS) can help tractors avoid high danger areas. Accidents involving pylons have occurred in other countries and have resulted in major injuries or death.