2005 Year in Review

“Tractors Kill in Illinois”

Did you know that the leading cause of farm-related deaths in Illinois are tractor rollover accidents? According to Bob Aherin, University of Illinois Extension agricultural safety and health specialist, one out of every five deaths on the farm occurs when a tractor rolls over on top of the operator. On average nine deaths a year on Illinois farms are contributed to tractor overturns. The tragic thing about tractor rollover deaths is that most could be prevented.

Tractor rollovers occur everywhere, not only in hilly areas. They occur on rough terrain like a ditch or embankment, when running over an object, turning a tractor on level ground to sharply and at to high of a speed, not keeping front end loaders low except when necessary to dump the load, and while performing many other everyday practices. Farmers and their families can, however, take action to protect them from this tragic event. Not performing such activities is always best, but the use of a rollover protective structure (ROPS) and seatbelt can help if a farmer is faced with a rollover.

How can you protect yourself and the ones you love? Aherin recommends retrofit older tractors that are still being used around the farm with a ROPS if the tractor does not have one. Use safe driving techniques such as avoiding sharp turns and reduce speed when turning. NEVER allow passengers to ride on the tractor and always wear a seatbelt when operating a tractor equipped with a ROPS. Be sure that the protective equipment is in good operating condition and the driver is familiar with their terrain.

Avoid driving on steep embankments, near ditches, and around holes. These areas are prone to rollovers. The ground can give way; the tractor will lose support and roll over. When conditions require operation on steep slopes, always head down slopes and travel backwards up slopes. This will place the tractor in a more stable position and reduce rollover risks.

It's worth a thought every day: How are you staying safe on your tractor?

by  Editor, theCity1.com
April 22, 2005