Tractor Safety

17 Tractor Safety Guidelines Severe Weather Severe weather can produce lightning, hail, high winds, tornadoes or flash flooding, all of which can be hazardous for someone operating a tractor. Protecting yourself during a severe weather situation can involve a variety of actions, such as delaying the work, knowing the weather forecast for the day, listening to the radio for updated weather reports, having a telephone or radio to use in the event of an emergency, and knowing where to seek shelter. Spill Spills are unintentional and can pollute soil and groundwater. While operating a tractor, a spill can occur when fueling, during operation if a fuel or hydraulic line breaks, or when applying chemicals. The plan for responding to spills should include emergency phone numbers to call, instructions for containing and cleaning up spills, and providing safety data sheet (SDS) information to responding personnel. Emergency Action Plans When planning for emergencies, be sure to communicate hazards through postings/signage and have procedures in place for personnel to follow. A n Emergency Action Plan template has been developed to help address potential issues. • Develop a procedure for responding to medical emergencies at your location. Be sure the procedure includes identification of the emergency, evaluation of the scene before entering (to avoid rushing into a potentially dangerous condition or atmosphere), and instructions for contacting emergency services. • Post the names and phone numbers of agencies or people to contact during an emergency. • Post a National Fire ProtectionAssociation (NFPA) 704 diamond in areas where chemicals, fuel, compressed gas cylinders, etc., are stored. • Identify evacuation routes and meeting locations for emergencies. • Know the location of safety equipment such as fire extinguishers, safety shower, etc.