Go Above and Beyond
for a Safe Harvest
THROUGHOUT HAMILTON COUNTY Electric Cooperative’s territory, you’ll find lots of farms—big and small. And while they may look different than they used to—with many modern conveniences—the workers on those operations still do some one of the most dangerous jobs around. They have to remain vigilant. Massive machinery is indispensable to farming, but its impressive size, height and extensions make it particularly vulnerable around power lines. That’s why staying alert, focused and knowledgeable about potential hazards and safety procedures is crucial to staying alive.
360-Degree Awareness
Awareness of your surroundings—around, above and below—and planning safe equipment routes can significantly reduce the risk of accidents.
Even with GPS and auto-steering, it’s imperative that farm workers keep a close eye on the equipment’s location and be ready to take action if necessary.
Grain bins can pose a potential danger as well. If you plan to install grain bins or you’re concerned about the proximity of power lines to existing grain bins, contact Hamilton County EC.
Smart Harvest Safety
Use spotters when operating large machinery near power lines. Ensure the spotters do not touch the machinery while it’s moving near power lines.
Lower equipment extensions, portable augers or elevators before moving or transporting equipment. Do not raise equipment, such as ladders, poles or rods around power lines. Even nonmetallic materials like lumber and hay can conduct electricity, especially when damp, dusty or dirty.
Never attempt to raise or move power lines to clear a path. If they need to be moved, contact us to get the job done.
Hire qualified electricians. Ensure that they alone handle work on drying equipment and other farm electrical systems.
While rare, the only reason to exit equipment that has come into contact with overhead lines is if the equipment is on fire. If that happens, jump off the equipment with your feet together and without touching the machinery and the ground at the same time. Then, still keeping your feet together, bunny hop to safety as you leave the area.
Farmers are vital members of our electric cooperative community, and we want to keep them safe and farming for many years to come.