Tractor Safety

10 Tractor Safety Guidelines ¤¤ the terrain over which you are traveling. ¤¤ the equipment you are using. ¤¤ always remember to slow down when making a turn. ¤¤ always allow for appropriate stopping distances. • Evaluate the terrain you will be traveling over during the work period. To prevent tractor roll-over, avoid driving on steep slopes, through ditches, over rough ground, stumps and large rocks. Do not drive along the edge of streams or pits, and always seek an alternate route in dangerous areas. If a safe route is not available, proceed cautiously at a slow speed. Descend slopes cautiously in low gear. • Check the planned route for low power lines or overpasses. Ensure bridges can support the weight of the tractor and equipment. • Follow the “No Seat, No Rider” rule. Never allow additional passengers on a tractor, unless equipped with an “instructor seat.” • To aid communication, use hand signals during tractor operation, such as those developed by the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers. Stopping Safely When parking or leaving a piece of machinery for any length of time; 1. Make sure the transmission is in park or neutral with the parking brake engaged, 2. Fully engage the brakes. 3. Deactivate attachments and lower to the ground, 4. Stop the engine and remove the key. Always come to a complete stop before leaving your seat, when someone approaches, or when anyone is working on the machine. Hitching and Attachments Tractor implements and attachments should be regarded as tools. They can be useful and labor saving when used properly, but can be dangerous if not used correctly. • Equipment being towed should be hitched directly to the draw bar, with a hitch pin secured in place by a cotter pin or locking pin. Do not tow implements with chains, cables, or ropes. Evaluate the terrain. No Seat, No Rider Accidents are common when hitching or unhitching tractor- mounted machines.