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Replace any damaged manufacturer-installed warning labels and place warnings on equipment parts not
previously labeled. In addition, consider painting them a bright color, perhaps with wide stripes. Be aware of
wrap points and be alert to their danger.
Crush Points
Crush points are created when two objects move toward each other or one object moves toward a stationary object.
For example, hitching tractors to implements (Fig. 3 below) creates a potential crush point.
Hitch accidents most commonly occur to fingers placed at the hitching point. Wait until the tractor has stopped
before stepping into the hitching position. If possible, arrange the hitch point so that the tractor can be backed into
position without anyone between. Always know what the other person is doing.
Failure to safely block up equipment can result in a fatal crushing injury. A jack may slip, a hose or overhead
support may break, or the equipment may roll. Take extra precautions when working with machinery that is raised
for any reason. The operator’s head or chest can be crushed between the equipment and a low beam or other part
of a farm building. These accidents usually occur when the machine is being operated in reverse. Tree limbs are
also potential hazards when working with tractors and other machinery.
To prevent being crushed or pinned, recognize and avoid potentially dangerous situations. Block all machinery
securely if you must work under it. If an implement can roll freely, block its wheels so it cannot roll.
Free-Wheeling Parts
Many machine parts continue to spin after the power is shut off, including cutter heads of forage harvesters,
hammer mills of feed grinders, rotary mower blades, fans and flywheels. Never touch these parts until they
have stopped moving. This could take 2 - 2 1/2 minutes.
Figure 3
