Safety Tips in Seeding Season

Profitability and safety go hand in hand. Having an incident effects your physical, mental and emotional wellbeing as well as for everyone involved. Incidents can delay work, damage or ruin equipment, and increase insurance costs.

Regardless what role you play in seeding, whether it is directly or indirectly, it is essential to keep safety at the forefront of your mind.

Here are 8 safety tips that can help you navigate the seeding season safely, for a successful harvest.

1. Properly Store Fertilizers

Keep fertilizers away from incompatible materials such as fuels, oils, pesticides, etc.. Wear the appropriate personal protective equipment, (PPE) when exposed to these fertilizers.

Store fertilizers in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place away from heat, fire and moisture sources. Make sure to keep these materials out of reach of children and animals.

2. Safe Chemical Handling & PPE

To reduce the risk of exposure, ALWAYS read and follow the label instructions, safety data sheet (SDS), and wear appropriate PPE. Dispose of empty containers according to local regulations. Ensure to wear sturdy, close-toed shoes, long pants and long-sleeved shirts to protect your skin from potential hazards. Before working on fertilizer/spraying equipment, ensure you know what chemicals have been used in it and how to protect yourself from exposure. Use goggles, chemical gloves and a respirator if required. Always refer to the SDS for PPE requirements and first aid measures.

3. Proper Equipment Maintenance

Before you head out into the field, ensure your equipment is in good working order. Regularly inspect your equipment for wear and tear. A well-maintained machine is not only more efficient but also significantly safer to operate.

4. Proper Lighting/Visibility

Good lighting and visibility are crucial for safety, especially when working early in the morning or late in the evening. Make sure your equipment has working headlights, taillights, and hazard lights. Reflective markings can also help improve visibility for other drivers and workers.

5. Safe Transport while on public roadways

When moving machinery and equipment between locations, always follow proper safety guidelines. Ensure all equipment is securely hitched and do a double-check to ensure all connections before hitting the road. Follow appropriate speed limits and use hazards identification lights.

6. Be Aware of Your Surroundings

Whether you’re operating equipment or walking through fields, always be aware of your surroundings. Look out for uneven terrain, holes, or other obstacles that could cause injury. When operating machinery, be especially cautious near ditches, embankments, water and power lines.

Additionally, be mindful of other workers in the area and communicate your intentions to ensure everyone’s safety.

7. Use safe lifting techniques

To avoid strain and injury, always lift with your legs, not your back.

Bend your knees, keep your back straight and avoid twisting your body when lifting. If an object is too heavy for one person to lift, don’t hesitate to ask for help or use mechanical assistance.

8. Use safe lifting techniques

During long hours in the field, it’s essential to stay hydrated and take breaks, as needed. Carry a water bottle with you, and drink frequently to avoid dehydration. Remember to take short breaks before you start to feel fatigued.

Overexertion can lead to injury, so it’s crucial to listen to your body and rest when necessary. Taking care of your body through sleep, nutrition and hydration will decrease the chance of injury and help ensure a successful seeding season.