Norwood The Grain Handler 10, Operator'S Manual, Page: 18 / 130

2 - SAFETY INFORMATION
2-6
Grain Bin Safety Contd.
Collapse of Bridged Grain
• Grain can “Bridge” across a grain bin, creating an emp -
ty air space below. A person can easily break through
this bridge and become trapped, risking suffocation.
Fig. # 2-2 Suffocation Hazards of Bridged Grain
"Example A"
Fig. # 2-3 Suffocation Hazards of Bridged Grain
"Example A"
• To identify bridged grain, look for a funnel shape on the
surface of the grain after having removed some of the
grain. If surface is undisturbed, the grain has bridged
and formed a crust.
• Never walk on the grain crust. The crust rarely becomes
strong enough to support the weight of a person.
• To remove bridge, try breaking the bridge from the in -
spection hatch or peak. Use a pole to hit the surface,
securing it with a rope in case it is dropped. Be aware
that chunks of crusted grain can move down to the
auger and limit flow.
Collapse of a Vertical Wall of Grain
• Vertical walls of grain are created when the bin is
partially empty. Poking at the wall can make the grain
avalanche and submerge a person and trap you in
seconds causing suffocation and death.
Fig. # 2-4 Suffocation Hazards of Massed Grain
"Example A"
Fig. # 2-5 Suffocation Hazards of Massed Grain
"Example B"
• Do not enter the grain bin to break down grain that has
clumped together. Break the grain mass from the top
of the grain bin outside.
Flowing Grain
• Grain flows in a funnel-shaped path when unloading.
This vortex of grain behaves very much like a water
drain. Velocity increases as grain flows from the bin
wall at the top of the grain mass into a small vertical
column at the center of the bin.
• Flowing grain will not support the weight of a person.
Submersion happens within seconds.