February 20, 2003

Don’t Take the Fall

The simple act of falling is the most common cause of injury, at home and at work, according to George Maher, North Dakota State University Extension Service agriculture safety specialist. In recent years, falls on the farm accounted for 8.5 percent of fatalities, with a number of these falls occurring from grain storage facilities.

Maher notes that the seriousness of injuries obviously varies in proportion to what lies beneath the grain bin. Falling on drifts of snow can cause serious injury, depending on what lies beneath the pile. Grain bin sites should be clear of scrap iron and other unnecessary materials.

Many falls occur because of slippery, broken or loose ladder rungs and handholds on the bin. Loose ladder rungs and handholds should be repaired when discovered.

Wind, cold and fumes from grain treatment can also prompt falls. Grain storage that has been treated for insects should be inspected with care. "Try to be at the side of the bin door or hatch when you first open it, because inhaling fumes could cause a fall," Maher says. "Grain fumigants are hazardous and highly toxic. They can cause dizziness, nausea and even fainting."

The re-entry schedule for bins that have been treated is critical and the fumigant label instructions should be followed carefully. Bins that have been treated should not be entered for at least 72 hours. Further instructions should be listed on a warning sign posted on the bin. Perhaps the most important rule to observe in this situation is that one person never inspect a fumigated bin alone.

"It is never a good idea, at any time of the year, to be the only person at the bin site when climbing on or entering the bin is involved," Maher says. "Always have another person, on the ground, at the site with you."

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Source: George Maher, (701) 231-8288, george.maher@ndsu.nodak.edu
Writer: Teresa Oe, (701) 231-8371, teresa.oe@ndsu.nodak.edu
Editor: Rich Mattern, (701) 231-6136, richard.mattern@ndsu.nodak.edu

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