We take safety very seriously at Ridley Block Operations. Here, safety isn’t just something that the plants think about now and then. It’s a part of our culture in all aspects of the company. We’re also encouraged to think about safety outside of the office. So I thought it would be good to bring our culture of safety to our customers and encourage you to stop and think about safety in your everyday life too.
Farming and ranching is a dangerous job. CNNMoney.com listed farming and ranching as the 7th most dangerous job in the US with 25.3 deaths in 100,000 workers. Congress even tried to enforce rules geared toward keeping our farm youth safe. However, safety can’t be legislated; it has to start with each of us. We all need to think about the task at hand and the hazards it presents.
Livestock
Even experienced producers will have a story or two of a near miss with an aggressive animal. Livestock can be unpredictable, especially when under stress, ill or injured. Momma cows, ewes and does can be overly protective of their offspring and charge. Male animals are territorial and will decide in an instant if you are friend or foe and the answer may not be the same each time. When working with animals that can be aggressive stay calm and avoid sudden movement or loud noise; always know where the escape route is and never turn your back on them.
Machinery
Tractors, skid steers and implements make work a little easier, but each present their own safety risks. Take the time to plan out the job that needs completing and make sure that everyone understands what the plan of action is. Remember that tractors and skid steers will have limited visibility in the cab and the noise level will not allow for the driver to hear shouting. When driving, look around before you start moving; if on the ground, be sure to stay out of the way. Implements present their own challenges. Never lean or step over a running PTO. Loose clothing can be snagged and you will be caught up in the PTO. When working on an implement, disconnect all power sources and make sure others know what you are doing.
Vehicles
ATVs and farm trucks are a necessity for any operation. ATVs are handy and can be a lot of fun. Be sure that all riders have had an ATV safety course, wear helmets and only have passengers if the ATV is rated for 2 riders. When in the pick-up, always wear your seatbelt and have your passengers do the same. Drive at speeds that are safe for the weather conditions and the terrain.
No doubt we all ourselves have been injured by one of the points listed above, or know someone who was. Hindsight would say that it could have been avoided, but we were in a hurry. By taking a little extra time before starting a job, we can ensure that all involved will be safe and remove farming and ranching from the dangerous jobs list.
