Safe Tractor Operation
August 2, 2009 - 12:43pm
In Washington, tractor accidents are the leading cause of fatalities in agriculture. Use the following list as a starting point to develop safety instruction tailored to your specific equipment and circumstances.
1. Employees should operate tractors only after receiving proper training.
2. Inspect the tractor for any unsafe conditions before operating.
3. Use proper mounting and dismounting techniques (always use three-point contact to the tractor).
4. Only start tractor from the operator's seat.
5. Securely fasten the seat belt if the tractor has a Rollover Protection Structure (ROPS).
6. Survey the working area and mark off any hard-to-see or hidden hazards.
7. Never allow riders.
8. Reduce speed when turning, crossing slopes, and maneuvering through rough, slick, or muddy surfaces.
9. Stay off slopes too steep for safe operation.
10. Hitch only to the drawbar and hitch points recommended by tractor manufacturers.
11. When tractor is stopped, be sure to set brakes securely.
