Union warns of silo danger
8 August 2000
Union warns of silo danger
By FWi Staff
BEWARE of the dangers posed by grain silos as this years harvest rolls in, warns the National Farmers Union. .
Each year one or two people are suffocated when they are dragged under grain which can be like quicksand in a silo.
When the outlet of a grain bin is opened, grain flows out through a small hole at the bottom of the pit creating a suction effect.
Problems usually arise when the emptying switch is thrown accidentally while someone is standing on the grain.
The NFU is urging farmers to carry out some simple steps to minimise the dangers:
- Educate everyone, especially children, to the dangers of silos.
- Ensure the grain pit has a strong grid at or near its surface and a clearly marked switch to isolate the conveyor or auger fitted close to the pit.
- Fit safeguards in each grain bin, such as a scaffolding pole or overhanging ladder.
- An electrical interlock between the top hatch of an outdoor grain bin and the emptying auger switch could be fitted to prevent the auger being switched on when the hatch is opened.
NFU technical services committee chairman Marcus Themans said: ” Too often farmers and farm workers are unaware of the dangers of moving grain in a silo.
“A person standing up to their knees in moving grain would be subjected to a massive suction effect, impossible to escape from even with people attempting to pull you out.
“Knowledge of these potential hazards and cheap and easily fitted design features can reduce or even eliminate these dangers.”