In the Upper Midwest, corn grows tall, reminding us that silage season is inching closer and closer. Some dairy farmers are fortunate to have experienced farm help on standby to assist them as they prepare for summer and fall fieldwork. Other farmers are not quite so lucky. Farm help can be hard to find. Good help that has farm equipment experience is even harder to find.
Safety Tips for the Infrequent Farm Help
Many farmers who are already finding themselves short on help on their dairy are now relying on their dairy employees to help with fieldwork. Or they are even looking to the retired neighbor who has some extra time and wants to lend a helping hand. Or, a high school student who is available to work in the afternoon or on the weekend, or even their own farm kid, who wants to help in a different role. Some of these helpers are probably less likely to be familiar with the farming side of the business, although they are versed on the dairy side of the operation. Reviewing safety tips before you let them head out on their own is highly recommended by experts.
Importance of Proper Training
For those new to fieldwork, proper training is essential to ensure both their safety and the safety of others. Unfamiliarity with heavy machinery and the different pace of fieldwork can lead to accidents if they’re not adequately prepared.
Safety Guidelines
The following five valuable tips are offered by Penn State Extension to aid in keeping inexperienced help safe on the farm:
1. Reiterate the importance of safety of your farm.
2. Establish two-way communication with all your help. This includes having a conversation beforehand to find out what their skill set includes and what their comfort level is with necessary tasks. If someone is not comfortable, listen to them and provide them with the needed instruction, or find another person to perform that task.
3. Review operation procedures for equipment, including how to stop or disengage. Do not assume every operator will have the same ability.
4. Prepare routine maintenance on farm equipment, including making sure that guards and shields are in place. Fix your equipment if wear or breakage has made operation of the equipment more challenging.
5. Build the confidence and skill of your less experienced helpers by giving tasks that are manageable for that person. Start small with tasks, if needed.
By taking the time to properly train and equip your infrequent farm help, you can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and injuries. Safety should always be a top priority, and with the right preparation, even those with limited farming experience can contribute effectively to the fieldwork.
While finding good help can be a challenge, ensuring they are well-prepared and safety-conscious is key. This not only protects them but also supports the overall efficiency and productivity of the farm operations.
