ACRE Safety Thought #42

Here are some more ACRE safety thoughts about combines. Some researchers have found it better to use a plot combine as a stationary combine for small plots than to use a single plant thresher or a bundle thresher. This can be made a safer operation with a few extra precautions. Teach everyone involved in the operation about the procedures and safe operation. Place the combine on a level solid location with adequate space to work. The area should be cleared of tripping hazards. Be sure to put the combine in neutral and set the parking brake. Double check this. The reel mechanism must be stopped while the collection belt operates. No moving parts should be exposed and all guards should be securely in place. When placing plants in the combine, you must keep hands and arms away from the moving collection belt. As needed you must move threshed debris away from the rear discharge of the combine. You should always train other workers in emergency shut down procedures. Plan, think, and work safely at ACRE. Jim