|
SAFELY WORKING WITH AND AROUND TRACTORS
The following safety module is intended to be used as a refresher safety awareness
session and is in no way to be used as a substitute for job training nor proper equipment
use.
 SECURELY FASTEN
YOUR SEAT BELT IF THE TRACTOR HAS ROPS
Don't rely on the tractor's Rollover Protection System (ROPS) alone for your protection -
use your seat belt. Studies show that tractor drivers can still be thrown from an upset
tractor and be seriously injured or crushed. The seat belt will help keep you inside the
ROPS in the event of a rollover.
REDUCE SPEED
WHEN TURNING
When operating a tractor, avoid sharp turns and high speeds. High speeds, coupled with
rough ground and narrow wheel settings increases the chance for a rollover. Make turns
slowly and at wide angles.
AVOID OPERATING
TRACTORS NEAR DITCHES, EMBANKMENTS AND HOLES
Keep tractors and implements away from irrigation ditches and embankment edges to avoid
tractor upsets. Edges may be weak and break from the weight of the equipment. When you are
traveling downhill, use low gears. When you must go up a slope, back up to increase your
stability. Approaching a steep slope in the forward position will cause the tractor to
upset and possibly injure or kill you. Look ahead at your path. Keep your eyes open for
large holes, rocks or any slopes and avoid them.
IF YOU GET
STUCK, GET HELP FROM ANOTHER TRACTOR
If you get stuck, do not tie a fence post or any other object to the tire for traction
as it may tip the tractor over as it tries to overcome the hump, or the post may be thrown
up behind the tractor hitting the driver. The best solution is to have another tractor
pull you out.
DO NOT PERMIT
OTHERS TO RIDE
Many unnecessary injuries occur due to riders falling unintentionally from the tractor. An
unexpected jolt or stop can cause a rider to lose balance and fall beneath the trailing
equipment or tractor tires. Unless a seat is specifically designed for an additional
person, never permit anyone to ride.
HITCH ONLY TO
THE DRAWBAR AND HITCH POINTS
Tractors are designed to tow loads from the rear hitch only. Never hitch a load to the
axle or seat as this will cause the tractor to upset backwards. Always match your load to
the tractor. Tractors that are too small for the load will have problems stopping once the
load has begun to move. If the tractor needs extra weight for balance, add front weights
as necessary. Balance the weight of the load on the trailing implement in order to
minimize the stress at the hitch point.
STUNT DRIVING
AND HORSEPLAY IS PROHIBITED
Tractors are not designed for high speeds or for quick maneuvers. Due to the location of
the tractor's center of gravity, the tractor can very easily tip to the side if not
handled properly. Horseplay and stunts are unsafe acts that promote injuries and death and
will not be tolerated by your employer.
SET THE BRAKES
SECURELY WHEN THE TRACTOR IS STOPPED
When you need to make adjustments to the tractor or to the trailing equipment, put the
tractor into neutral, set the brakes, turn off the engine and remove the key. Be sure to
disengage the PTO before working on any trailing equipment. Always replace the PTO shield
and other shields after your adjustments.
INSPECT YOUR
TRACTOR REGULARLY
Since tractors can be taken on public roads as well as in the field, it is important that
tail lights, signals and safety chains are maintained in good condition. Inspect the brake
fluid and engine fluid, and notify your supervisor if any adjustments/repairs need to be
made. Make sure your tractor has a Slow Moving Vehicle emblem at the rear if it is to be
driven on public roads.
ARTICULATED-FRAME
TRACTORS REQUIRE SPECIAL CAUTION
Because articulated-frame tractors bend in the middle, it is especially important that
you exercise caution when others are nearby. Before starting articulated-frame tractors,
make sure bystanders are not nearby. Understand that steering is more difficult with these
tractors and any load being pulled will swing wider side to side, so drive slowly. When
making turns, stop first and then begin your turn slowly.
USE COMMON
SENSE WHEN OPERATING TRACTORS
To prevent unnecessary injuries, don't jump from the tractor but use the provided hand
railing and steps. Use safety hand signals to co-workers to maintain communication. Ask
your supervisor for a copy of the hand signals used by your company. |
