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The Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation is making safety conversations a priority at this year’s Farm Science Review. BWC will have safety consultants available at two different booths this year, including a presence in the Ohio Farm Bureau building on the corner of Beef Street and Friday Avenue.

“It’s a crucial time to review basic safety items that could mistakenly be overlooked or omitted when workers are putting in longer hours during harvest season,” said BWC Administrator/CEO Stephanie McCloud. “The time when you think ‘just this once I can take this shortcut,’ is unfortunately often the time when a real accident may occur.”

Following a frustrating planting season for many Ohio farmers, BWC is hopeful that harvest season will be more uplifting and, most importantly, free from preventable injuries and illnesses.

Farm Science Review takes place Sept. 20-22. Attendees will have the opportunity to visit with a safety consultant, learn about the free safety resources available through BWC, and pick up a 10-point safety checklist to prepare for a busy harvest season. In addition, BWC will demonstrate the importance of hearing protection through an interactive display.

Here are the items BWC recommends all workers should review to help prevent accidents and injuries during the busy harvest season.

1. Make sure slow-moving vehicle signs are in place and warning lights and alarms are working properly for any equipment moving on roadways.
2. Always start the day by doing inspections of equipment to ensure there are no problems that need addressed.
3. While working with combines, make sure there is no build up on the equipment that could cause fire. Clear debris each time you stop.
4. When clearing debris or clogs from equipment, make sure equipment is shut off prior to clearing. When clearing debris use tools to keep hands clear of moving parts that could have a sudden release of stored energy.
5. Power take-offs are always a concern for entanglement. Ensure guards are in place on equipment and power take-offs are shut down prior to going near them. Avoid loose clothing, drawstrings, and long hair that can become entangled.
6. Watch for other workers around equipment, making sure that workers are clear before proceeding.
7. Ensure equipment has proper lighting to complete the task at hand, especially if working after dark.
8. When filling silos or grain bins, watch for dust, vapors, and engulfment hazards. Use respirators (dusk masks) when necessary.
9. Take breaks and get ample rest to prevent fatigue. Keep hydrated.
10. Label pesticides and agrochemicals. Keep them in a safe and designated place and wear appropriate gloves and other protective equipment when handling.

Plus, listen to Stephanie McCloud review these harvest safety items and share additional safety tips on Our Ohio Weekly.

BWC is committed to helping your business prevent accidents. If you would like to schedule a free safety consultation, contact your local BWC service office, call 800-644-6292, or submit a request online. Please have your BWC policy number ready. A safety consultant will contact you within two business days.

Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation. We’ve got you Covered.

Established in 1912, the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation is the exclusive provider of workers’ compensation insurance in Ohio, serving 249,000 public and private employers. With nearly 1,600 employees and assets of approximately $25 billion, BWC is one of the largest state-run insurance systems in the United States. For more, visit bwc.ohio.gov.