The grain auger is a tube that is used for raising and transporting grain from the ground level to tops of grain bins or load trucks. It consists of large tube that contains a solid shift. The flighting inside is a steel spiral welded to the center of the shaft, and when it turns counter-clockwise, grain is pulled up through the shaft and deposited into the hopper. However, as helpful as it is on the farm, grain augers in Oregon accidents are common occurrences.
Types of Grain Auger Accidents
One reason for the increase of auger-related injuries is the fact that most manufacturers fail to include safety measures like intake screens and shields that would help in drastically reducing these numbers. Some of the most common injuries caused during the operation of grain augers include:
* Lost Limbs –
* Usually due to coming into contact with or being entangled in the exposed part of the screw located at the intake leading to amputations.
* Fractures and cuts –
* Touching the auger’s sharp corkscrew blade as it rotates drawing up the grain can result in serious mutilation.
* Electrocution –
* This is often because of moving the raised auger around the farm, and it comes into contact with overhead electrical wires.
* Death –
* Caused by either one or a combination of the injuries mentioned above.
Minimizing the Risk of Grain Auger Accidents
According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), grain augers Ontario accidents can be prevented by carrying out the following measures:
* Erection of barriers that will prevent individuals not involved in operating the auger from gaining access.
* Children under the age of 18 should not be permitted to operate the augers or hang around the area near one.
* When starting the grain auger, operators should confirm that all protective shields are in good condition and in place.
* Before any type of servicing or repairs, power should be disconnected and the auger power source locked-out and tagged.
* Operators are advised not to wear loose garments or jewelry and tie long hair to the back when operating the augers.
* The worker should never step or jump over or on the auger while in operation.
If the auger has to be shut down immediately, always disconnect and lock out the power source. Clean as much of the grain from the auger and hopper as possible, and never try to start the auger while full.
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