Vehicle Safety & Maintenance
Vehicles are running constantly during harvest, so vehicle safety is essential.
Before use always check your vehicle and any attached equipment are safe to operate
Regularly inspect machinery and report defects
Servicing and maintenance are key to reliability
Use operator manuals for safe operating instructions
Hydraulic tailgates – never stand in the danger area
Never unblock any part of a machine whilst it is running
Never maintain a vehicle whilst it is running
Never mount or dismount a machine whilst it is running
Harvest is one of the busiest periods of the year with machinery operating for long hours, increased vehicle movements and greater interaction with members of the public. Taking time to follow safe systems of work can help prevent incidents and keep operations running efficiently.
Harvest Machinery, Vehicles & Traffic Management
Working Beneath Vehicles
Never work beneath a vehicle supported only by a jack
Use axle stands that are in good condition and inspected regularly
Use stands on firm, level ground and securely locate them under a strong point on the vehicle
Securely chock wheels remaining on the ground
Do not exceed the rated capacity of the stand
Never work beneath a cab or tipping trailer unless it is properly propped
Always prop cabs, trailers and similar equipment that could drop under their own weight
Ensure the prop is locked in position before gaining access
If no prop is fitted, or you are unsure of its effectiveness, provide suitable alternative support
Rural Road Safety
Be aware of other road users including cyclists, pedestrians and horses
Pull over when it is safe and legal to do so to allow other vehicles to pass
Wear your seatbelt
Be careful when turning with implements or trailers
Take care when pulling out of gateways, particularly when using front-mounted machinery
Indicate well in advance and double-check mirrors, especially when turning right
Plan your route
Keep speed in check
All bulk loads must be sheeted when travelling on the highway unless specific permission has been given by your manager
Loads must not be higher than the sides of the trailer
Overhead Power Lines: Look out, Look Up, Stay Away, Stay Safe
If you come into contact with overhead power lines:
Drive away if you are able to do so safely
Stay in the cab and call 105 (the national power emergency number)
Warn others to stay clear
If you must leave the vehicle, jump well clear, landing with both feet together, then move away using bunny hops or leaping strides
Never have contact with the ground and the machine at the same time
Never return until you are certain the power has been isolated and it is safe to do so
Remember that power lines can be re-energised without warning
Working In/Around Grain Stores
Do not attempt work with electricity unless you are competent and have permission
Electrical cabinets on machinery should only be accessed by competent trained staff, with permission
Isolate and lock off all power supplies before undertaking work on machinery/equipment. Ask someone to double check all is safe before starting work and again, before switching the power back on
Traffic Management
Always follow site traffic management plans
Remember that yards are always busy environments with vehicles, machinery and pedestrians moving around
Transport risks increase where multiple parties are involved
Always Follow Safe Stop Procedures
Handbrake on
Gears in neutral
Engine switched off
Key removed
