Stay safe around electricity on the farm
Tall equipment touching power lines is a main cause of electrocution of farm workers
Electrical safety is critical for making Kentucky’s farms productive.
Farming is the seventh most dangerous job in the United States, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics 2018 National Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries report, which shows there were a total of 257 farming fatalities.
Sixty-two farm workers are electrocuted in the U.S. each year, according to the U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Safety and Health Administration, which notes that electrocution causes 3.6% of the farm deaths of youth under the age of 20.
Beware of electric lines
These deaths can be prevented. It’s important that those who live and work on farms know the risks and understand how they can unknowingly come into contact with electricity.
During National Farm Safety and Health Week, September 20-26, let’s remember to observe the following safety tips.
The most common risk of electrocution for farm workers comes from overhead power lines because tall equipment, such as grain augers, combines and raised dump truck beds, can easily become entangled in the lines.
Grain bins also pose a danger. The National Electrical Safety Code requires power lines to be at least 18 feet above the highest point on any grain bin with which portable augers or other portable filling equipment are used.
Farmers are encouraged to call their local electric co-op if they plan to install new grain bins or if they are concerned about the proximity of power lines to existing structures or equipment.
Check electrical systems
Farm owners are responsible for making sure all components of the farm’s electrical system are functioning correctly. Property owners should contact local government agencies to find out about any local codes for installing electrical distribution systems or building electrical fences.
Livestock farms often use electric fencing to contain animals. Farmers should regularly monitor electric fence chargers to ensure a safe amount of current is running through the wire. A volt meter can be used to test that the fence is functioning properly.
Generator safety
Many farms have standby generators on hand in case of power outages.
When a standby generator is used on a single-phase system, it must be connected to the farm’s wiring system through a double pole, double-throw switch.
This switch disconnects the farm’s electric system from the electric co-op’s lines during an outage, which prevents backfeed to keep our lineworkers safe.
Consider installing waterproof and dustproof electrical boxes and outlets. Farms are typically dusty, moist and corrosive environments.
Taking these types of precautions makes using electricity safer and more reliable.
Kentucky’s electric co-ops stress the importance of electricity to Kentucky’s agricultural industry.
