ASABE Developing Grain Bin Standard

The American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers (ASABE) has initiated a project to develop a new standard on design specifications related to grain bin entry. The new standard will direct bin manufactures to include interior anchorage points to which safety equipment can be attached. Proper use of such equipment would reduce the risk of a user falling through crusted grain or being pulled into flowing grain if other safety instructions are not followed. Finalization of the standard is expected by summer 2013.

The project involves individuals with a range of relevant expertise, who will study the draft and offer comments. Carol Jones, PE, PhD, of Oklahoma State University, is a member of the drafting committee. Jones notes that the initiative to develop the standard has been driven primarily by the bin users and by the steel bin manufacturers. In total, more than 40 individuals will provide expertise in the development of the grain-bin standard.

For more info on the project, X624 Grain Bin Entry, contact Scott Cedarquist at 269.932.7031, cedarq@asabe.org.