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ASA's Common Loss Control Risks

Loss control is vital when it comes to creating a safer farm. Here at Agri-Services Agency we have an entire team of people dedicated to collaborating with our customers to reduce or eliminate the potential for injuries or fatalities on farms. They work with our farms to identify hazards and implement the correct training or procedures to alleviate the risk.

Our loss control team works with farms all over the country and they see a wide range of different hazards. The following are some of the most common risks they have seen in recent months.

Missing Guards. When equipment is missing the required guards, such as a PTO shaft on a tractor, it can pose serious risk to those around the equipment. Taking simple preventative steps such as painting guards bright, contrasting colors and ensuring good lighting can help those around equipment see if a guard is in place. Implementing training and procedures can help to make sure that everyone is on the same page and knows to double check for guards and what to do if they are missing.

Electrical Hazards. Electricity is a necessity in many industries, agriculture included, however when electrical safety is not taken seriously it can be deadly. Things like missing breaker covers, blocked panels, and not utilizing GFI outlets in wet areas can pose some major risk. There are plenty of electrical hazards on a farm, make sure that your team is trained in how to spot and manage these hazards. Conduct regular safety audits to ensure that procedures are being followed and that any hazards are being addressed.

Improper Fencing. Making sure that the distinct parts of your farm have proper fencing can ensure the safety of everyone on the property. We’ve seen too many incidents where manure storage or collection facilities weren’t properly fenced in. Try implementing routine checks of your fences, taking time to repair any damage and install any additional fencing needed.

Lock Out, Tag Out. Machinery and electrical equipment that move in any way can pose major threats when it comes to safety but having locking and tagging procedures in place can help prevent this. Take time to identify areas where these procedures are needed, implement signage and training to address the problem, and stay on top of monitoring those areas.

Animal Handling. We have seen too many accidents where employees who are injured as a result of lack of training on animal handling. Make sure that anyone on your operation who is dealing with animals has proper, up to date training. Take time to discuss the importance of safe animal handling procedures with your staff.

There are many risks when it comes to working on a farm. These are just a handful of the ones our loss control department have seen more recently. The best way to address all safety concerns when it comes to your operation is to preform a safety audit and implement loss control resources to address those concerns.

Our on-site safety consultation surveys not only focus on the physical hazards found on farms but also include a review of your safety programs, policies, and procedures. Agri-Services Agency strives to be a partner on your farm in creating a safer, more productive and profitable operation, while keeping your insurance costs manageable and helping you improve employee safety. That is our focus.

To get the conversation started today or to schedule a loss control visit* with our team, give us a call at 1-877-466-9089. *Our loss control services are only available to Agri-Services Agency customers.

 
The above evaluations and/or recommendations are for general guidance only and should not be relied upon for legal compliance purposes. They are based solely on the information provided to us and relate only to those conditions specifically discussed. We do not make any warranty, expressed or implied, that your workplace is safe or healthful or that it complies with all laws, regulations or standards.