|
"Take note when moving
equipment like portable grain augers, oversized wagons and large
combines. Everyone who works on the farm should know the location of
power lines and keep farm equipment at least 10 feet away from
them," says Molly Hall, director of Safe Electricity. "The minimum
10-foot distance is a 360-degree rule below, to the side and above
lines. Ensuring proper clearance can save lives."
"Equipment contacting overhead
power lines is the leading cause of farm electrocution accidents in
the Midwest," said Bob Aherin, University of Illinois agricultural
safety specialist. "Moving portable grain augers poses the greatest
risk because those who are on the ground moving the equipment would
provide a direct path for electricity if there's a contact with
overhead wires.
"Always lower grain augers
before moving them, even if it's only a few feet. Variables like
wind, uneven ground, shifting weight or other conditions can combine
to create an unexpected result," Aherin said. "Use extreme caution
when raising the bed of a grain truck. It can be difficult to
estimate distance, and sometimes a power line is closer than it
looks. A spotter or someone with a broader view can help."
Farm workers also are advised
not to use metal poles when breaking up bridged grain inside and
around bins and to use qualified electricians for work on drying
equipment and other farm electrical systems.
Some other equipment safety
considerations:
* Always lower portable augers
or elevators to their lowest possible level -- under 14 feet --
before moving or transporting. Be careful when raising them.
* When moving large equipment
or high loads near a power line, always use a spotter or someone to
help make certain that contact is not made with a line.
* Be aware of increased height
when loading and transporting larger modern tractors with higher
antennas.
* Never attempt to raise or
move a power line to clear a path!
[to top of second column in
this article]
|
"It's also important for
operators of farm equipment or vehicles to know what to do if the
vehicle comes in contact with a power line," Hall says. "It's almost
always best to stay in the cab and call for help. Warn others who
may be nearby to stay away, and wait until the electric utility
arrives to make sure power to the line is cut off."
"If the power line is energized
and you step outside, your body becomes the path and electrocution
is the result," Aherin said. "Even if a power line has landed on the
ground, the potential for the area nearby to be energized still
exists. Stay inside the vehicle unless there's fire or imminent risk
of fire."
In that case, the proper action
is to jump, not step, with both feet hitting the ground at the same
time. Do not allow any part of your body to touch the equipment and
the ground at the same time. Continue to shuffle or hop to safety,
keeping both feet together as you leave the area.
Once you get away from the
equipment, never attempt to get back on or even touch the equipment.
Many electrocutions occur when the operator dismounts and, realizing
nothing has happened, tries to get back on the equipment.
As in any outdoor work, be
careful not to raise any equipment such as ladders, poles or rods
into power lines. Remember, nonmetallic materials such as lumber,
tree limbs, tires, ropes and hay will conduct electricity depending
on dampness and dust and dirt contamination.
The overhead electric wires
aren't the only electrical contact that can result in a serious
incident. Pole guy wires are grounded to the neutral; but, when one
of the guy wires is broken, it can cause an electric current
disruption. This can make those neutral wires anything but harmless.
If you hit a guy wire and break it, call the utility to fix it.
Don't do it yourself. When dealing with electrical poles and wires,
always call the electric utility.
For more information on farm
and home electrical safety, visit
www.SafeElectricity.org.
Spanish versions of farm electric safety information are also
available there.
Safe
Electricity is a statewide electrical safety public awareness
program. The program was created by a coalition of nearly three
dozen organizations, including the University of Illinois, rural
electric cooperatives and investor-owned electric utilities from
throughout the state. All are members of the Illinois Electric
Council, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to promoting
electric safety and efficiency.
[University
of Illinois news release]
|
