Wrong Track
Purdue University reported recently that 38 people became trapped in grain bins in 2014; 17 of them did not survive. That is compared to 33 entrapments and 13 deaths in 2013.
Grain Bin Safety
Safety Precautions
http://web.extension.illinois.edu/agsafety/equipment/grainbinsafety.cfm
Whenever possible, don't enter a grain bin. If you must enter the bin, as a farm owner/operator you should:
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Break up crusted grain from the outside of the bin with a long pole. When using a pole, check to see that it doesn't come into contact with electric lines.
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Wear a harness attached to a properly secured rope.
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Stay near the outer wall of the bin and keep walking if the grain should start to flow. Get to the bin ladder or safety rope as quickly as possible.
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Have another person, preferably two people, outside the bin who can help if you become entrapped. These people should be trained in rescue procedures and should know and follow safety procedures for entering the confined space.
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Grain fines and dust may cause difficulty in breathing. Anyone working in a grain bin, especially for the purpose of cleaning the bin, should wear an appropriate dust filter or filter respirator.
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Stay out of grain bins, wagons and grain trucks when unloading equipment is running.
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If it is necessary to enter the bin, remember to shut off the power to augers and fans. It is a good idea to lock out any unloading equipment before you enter a bin to prevent someone from unintentionally starting the equipment while you are in the bin.
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Children should not be allowed to play in or around grain bins, wagons or truck beds.
- Where possible, ladders should be installed inside grain bins to for an emergency exit. Ladders are easier to locate inside a dusty bin if there are brightly painted stripes just above or behind the ladder.