12
Apr
Tractors are definitely commonly used machines on farms; they are the main tool of agriculturists for performing their field jobs. They are used to carry semi-mounted and mounted equipment, to pull tillage equipment and wagons, to transport materials and are also used as a remote power source for other equipment. Unfortunately, the number of tractor accidents that result in serious injuries, and in worst cases, loss of life, is still high. The major causes of injury are falls, rollovers and contact with tractor attachments.
Today’s tractor manufacturers are constantly trying to improve the design of tractors and make them more safe to operate. But still, they are unable to invent and build a mechanism which will be able to recognize unsafe conditions. Therefore, if you are a tractor operator and a farm owner, there are some things you can do in order to reduce the risk of tractor accidents.
The tractor has a wide range of uses on farms. Depending on the model, you can use it for different purposes. But beware improper use of a certain model can easily result in an accident. For example, if you need a tractor to remove grass and snow you need to buy compact tractor. New models of compact tractors offer high level of comfort, better operating convenience and even a nicer appearance. Attachments are also a very important part of owning and using a compact tractor.
Anytime you are planing to complete some job using your tractor, make sure you make a pre-operational check to ensure the machine is in a safe working condition. Walk around the machine and check the area for obstacles that may be near or under the tractor. This includes boards, stones and similar. Walk around the tractor once again to check the machine itself. Remove the dipstick and check the oil level. Also, check the fuel level and fill if necessary. Checking the radiator, the air cleaner and the fire extinguisher is also important. When you are done with the inspection and you are sure that your tractor is in great working order, you can start doing what you planned.
A lot of tractor accidents are related to human factors. Some of them, such as poor attitude, poor judgment, insufficient training or knowledge, haste, fatigue, stress, intoxication, depression or showing off can bring to fatal tractor accidents. Thus, it is very important to be mentally and physically fit while operating a tractor. If you feel tired, sleepy or simply not feeling goof, stay away from the tractor because in case of some dangerous situation, chances are you will not be able to react properly and on time.
A person who does not know how to operate a tractor in a safe manner in possibly dangerous situations can be injured or even killed because of their poor judgment. When buy compact tractor and before you start operating with it, make sure you have trained about how the machine works and how to operate with this kind of equipment. A good place to start learning about it, is from the operator’s manual. If possible, do this with the tractor being in front of you. Being familiar with its features will help you develop more confidence while operating it. Learn the purpose and location of all of the controls and gauges and other indicators as well. Knowing all the controls by memory will allow you to react faster if there is an emergency situation.
