10
Figure 1.
Bin Suffocation Hazards in Flowing Grain
2.7.2 Collapse of Bridged Grain
This procedure may also apply to fertilizer where the bin is intended for fertilizer storage.
• Grain can “bridge” across a bin, creating an empty air space below. A person can easily break through this
bridge and become trapped, risking suffocation.
• 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 inspection hatch or filler cap. 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.
SMOOTHWALL BIN
