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Understanding Confined Space-Related Injuries and Fatalities

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Purdue University’s 2023 report on agricultural confined space-related injuries and fatalities reveals both alarming trends and areas of improvement within the industry. While there has been a notable decrease in the number of incidents compared to previous years, the statistics underscore the ongoing risks associated with confined spaces in agriculture.

Confined space entry report

Key Findings

  • Overall Cases: A total of 55 cases were documented in 2022, which includes 29 fatal and 26 non-fatal incidents. This represents a significant 33.7% decrease from the 83 cases recorded in 2021.
  • Grain Entrapments: The report documented 27 grain-related entrapments in 2022, showing a 35.7% decrease from the previous year. The remaining cases involved livestock waste handling, entanglements, and incidents related to grain dust explosions or fires.
  • Multiple Victims: Three incidents involved multiple victims, highlighting the potential for widespread danger in confined spaces.
  • Gender Representation: The report noted two female cases, including a dairy farm manure pit explosion and a fall from a grain elevator.
  • Geographic Distribution: Illinois reported the highest number of confined space-related cases (12), followed by Iowa (5). Historical data indicates that states like Iowa, Indiana, and Minnesota continue to account for a large percentage of grain entrapment cases.
  • Grain Dust Explosions: There were nine documented grain dust explosions at commercial facilities, resulting in 12 non-fatal injuries. Fortunately, no fatalities were reported in these incidents.
  • Aging Workforce: The average age of victims continues to rise, reflecting the increasing age of farmers in the U.S. In 2022, victims over 60 years old made up 28.6% of the cases where age was known.

Trends and Insights

Since the 1970s, Purdue University’s Agricultural and Biological Engineering Department has diligently documented incidents involving grain storage and handling facilities. This effort expanded in 2013 to include a broader range of agricultural confined space incidents, resulting in a comprehensive database (PACSID) containing 2,378 cases as of the end of 2022.

Despite the positive trend of fewer incidents, the report emphasizes the persistent need for effective safety training and proactive measures to protect workers. The methodology for collecting this data remains consistent, and while the numbers show improvement, the report acknowledges that many incidents, particularly non-fatal cases, may go unreported.

The Cost of Agricultural Confined Space-Related Incidents is Increasing

The economic implications of agricultural confined space incidents have changed significantly over time. In the past, the costs associated with fatalities or injuries were often manageable, covered by family, insurance policies, or local community support. However, with stricter OSHA regulations and increased scrutiny on workplace safety, non-exempt employers now face substantial financial risks. Jurisdictions have highlighted that neglecting employee safety can lead to hefty legal settlements, often reaching $10-17 million in cases involving fatalities or serious injuries, dwarfing OSHA fines that typically range from $50,000 to $100,000.

Valuable Resources for Safety Training

To aid in addressing these challenges, the website http://www.agconfinedspaces.org/ has been developed with support from a U.S. Department of Labor Susan Harwood Grant. This platform provides resources for safety training in agricultural confined spaces, focusing on grain storage and handling hazards. It includes:

  • Training materials and frequently asked questions.
  • Historical summaries of injuries and fatalities.
  • Educational resources aimed at young and beginning workers in the grain industry.

One highlighted program, “Against the Grain,” offers a comprehensive curriculum designed for youth and new employees at grain handling facilities. Since its launch, it has reached over 5,100 young individuals, demonstrating significant knowledge gains.

Additionally, training resources for emergency responders have been developed, with over 5,425 responders participating in these training sessions.

Conclusion

The findings from the 2023 report underscore the importance of focusing not only on reducing the number of incidents but also on strategically enhancing training for first responders. As the agricultural industry continues to evolve, so must our approaches to safety and emergency preparedness.

For a detailed look at the 2022 findings, methodology, and historical trends, please refer to the full report here.

Monotasking for Safety’s Sake

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During a recent safety inspection at a grain facility, one of our subject matter experts made it a point to engage with the facility manager and front line employees about their safety concerns. Typically, they expect to hear common issues like bin entry risks, worker fatigue, or the dangers of working on top of railcars. However, this time, the manager brought up an unexpected concern: multitasking.

This revelation was eye-opening. The manager expressed his discontent with employees splitting their attention between tasks, highlighting how it compromises their focus and safety. He emphasized the importance of assigning one task at a time, allowing employees to complete it fully before moving on to the next.

The Myth of Multitasking

The importance of monotasking

Multitasking is often viewed as a desirable skill in today’s fast-paced work environment. Many individuals might find themselves checking emails, texting, or taking calls while attempting to focus on their primary task. However, studies indicate that multitasking is not only ineffective but can also be dangerous.

The human brain is not wired to handle multiple tasks simultaneously. Instead of multitasking, individuals are merely switching their attention between tasks. This constant switching can lead to decreased accuracy, impaired judgment, and increased reaction times. According to a study by the University of California, distractions account for 32% of worker accidents, underscoring the dangers of divided attention.

The Impact of Distraction

The consequences of distraction can be severe. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that approximately 100 people die daily in vehicle crashes, with the risk of accidents increasing by 17% when drivers use their cell phones. While this scenario differs from working in a grain facility, the risks of distraction and its potential to cause accidents are similar.

Shifting to Monotasking

To mitigate the risks associated with multitasking, it is advisable to adopt a monotasking approach. This shift can enhance focus and reduce distractions, ultimately leading to a safer work environment. Here are some effective strategies to implement monotasking in the workplace:

  1. Prioritize Tasks: Begin by ranking tasks based on urgency and the focus required. Tackle the most critical and demanding tasks first thing in the day. Studies have shown that individuals who complete challenging tasks in the morning perform significantly better than those who do so later in the day.
  2. Structure Breaks: Incorporate structured breaks into the workday. Research indicates that taking regular 15-minute breaks can dramatically increase productivity. Employees should be encouraged to socialize during these breaks, avoid cell phone usage, and get outside for fresh air. This practice not only revitalizes employees but also enhances their focus and problem-solving skills.
  3. Educate Employees: Raise awareness among employees about the connection between distractions and workplace injuries. Emphasize the importance of monotasking and structured breaks to improve their focus and safety.

While eliminating multitasking may not always be feasible, fostering a work environment that promotes monotasking can lead to better productivity, higher quality work, and a safer atmosphere for all employees. Encouraging the team to focus on one task at a time can make a significant difference in their well-being and safety. Remember, sending employees home safely is the ultimate goal.

This blog drafted from an article by Joe Mlynek, published in July/August 2024 edition of Grain Journal Magazine.

Feedlot Safety Tips to Protect Workers and Livestock

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Agriculture is one of the most dangerous industries in the world, with high rates of occupational injuries, illnesses, and fatalities. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) consistently reports that agriculture has the highest rates of injuries of any major industry sector in the United States. In 2021, agriculture saw 19.5 fatal injuries per 100,000 full-time equivalent (FTE) workers. Specific subsectors, such as beef cattle production, face even greater risks. Nearly 45% of feedlot injuries involve handling cattle, making safety a top priority in feed yard operations. To create a safer environment for both workers and livestock, here is a viable list of feedlot safety tips. We’ve linked courses pertaining to each topic below. Please click the underlined text to learn more or test drive a full course.

Low-Stress Cattle Handling

Cattle handling is a leading cause of injuries in feedlots. Understanding cattle behavior and implementing low-stress handling techniques are critical. By respecting the flight zone (cattle’s personal space) and using predictable movements, handlers can reduce stress and prevent dangerous situations. Building trust with cattle is essential to minimizing risks.

Horses

Horses are involved in approximately half of all cowboy incidents. Since horses present a variety of safety challenges it is critical to have thorough horse selection criteria before they are deployed, and that they are trained for the specific situations where they will be used. The Brandon Wenta Tragedy, Cowboy Safety: Horses and Pen Conditions and Cowboy Safety: Cattle Movement are courses we offer on this subject.

Proper Equipment Maintenance & Use

Maintaining equipment like tractors, skid steers, and feed trucks is vital for preventing accidents. Regular inspections and prompt repairs ensure machinery operates safely, reducing the risk of malfunctions that could lead to injuries.

Slip, Trip, and Fall Prevention

Feedlots present various slip, trip, and fall hazards. Slick pen conditions are common year-round, and weather is always a factor. Proper footwear is essential. Preventing falls from heights such as bins and legs requires extensive training and use of special equipment. Remembering the three-point contact rule (two hands and a foot or two feet and a hand) reduces the probability of slips and falls when climbing ladders and when entering / exiting equipment.

Safe Operation of Mobile Equipment

Training workers on the safe operation of mobile equipment, such as feed trucks, loaders, UTVs (utility task vehicles), and ATVs (all-terrain vehicles) is crucial. Emphasize the importance of wearing seat belts and staying alert in areas where livestock or other workers are present. If you use ATVs consider replacing them with UTVs since they are inherently safer.   

Lockout/Tagout

Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures are essential for preventing accidental equipment start-ups that could lead to serious injuries or fatalities. Ensure all workers are trained on LOTO protocols, which involve isolating and securing machinery before maintenance or repair work is performed. Proper LOTO practices are critical for protecting workers from unexpected releases of hazardous energy.

Fire and Explosion Safety

Fire safety is critical in feedlots due to the potential for fires and dust explosions. Establishing no smoking areas and using explosion proof fixtures and wiring are critical prevention measures. Ensure that fire extinguishers are well maintained, conduct fire/explosion drills and have all workers practice the fire evacuation plan. Hot work, such as welding, cutting, or grinding poses significant fire and explosion risks. Always follow proper hot work safety procedures, including obtaining permits and ensuring fire watches are in place.

Bin and Confined Space Entry Safety

Grain bins and confined spaces such as boot pits pose significant risks including engulfment, falls, and hazardous atmospheres. Workers should never enter these areas until an entry permit is completed and safety measures are followed. Always use appropriate harnesses and lifelines and ensure that all equipment is locked out and tagged out before entry. Ventilation should be tested to confirm it is safe before entry, and workers must be trained on the risks and proper safety procedures associated with bin and confined spaces and falls from heights. Our course, It Was A Good Friday: Grain Entrapment and Engulfment provides an impactful look at the importance of this issue.

Hydration and Heat Stress Prevention

Working in hot conditions can lead to heat stress and dehydration. Provide shaded rest areas, ensure easy access to water, and educate workers on the signs of heat-related illnesses and the importance of staying hydrated.

Emergency Preparedness

Every feedlot should have a clear, well-communicated emergency response plan. This includes procedures for handling medical emergencies, fires, severe weather, and other potential hazards. Regularly review and practice these plans with all employees to ensure everyone knows their role in an emergency.

Feedlot safety is multifaceted, requiring attention to a range of hazards from cattle handling to equipment maintenance and emergency preparedness. By implementing these safety tips, feed yards can significantly reduce the risk of injury and create a safer, more efficient working environment.

Remember, a commitment to safety is essential at all levels of the operation. Continuous training, vigilance, and proactive safety practices are the keys to protecting workers and livestock in this high-risk industry.

Remembering Rod: A Legacy of Safety and Change

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On November 3rd, 2006, our world shifted forever. This is the story of Safety Made Simple’s Anne Cook and Joe Mlynek’s friend and colleague, Rod, who tragically lost his life in a grain engulfment incident. It’s also the story of a company that underwent a profound transformation in its safety culture following that heartbreaking event.

The Incident: from Anne

That fateful Friday in Fall of 2006 began like any other. I was having lunch with Roger and Steve, who led our plant emergency organization. We were the plant radio monitors, accustomed to the usual chatter. But at 11:30 AM, everything changed. A frantic voice burst through the radio—our coworker Sean, urgently calling for help at Tank 2. Someone was buried in grain.

Time seemed to freeze. Roger and Steve sprinted to grab rescue equipment, leaving me alone to hear the escalating situation unfold over the radio. It was a surreal and terrifying moment. Then, the call came—it was Rod.

Rod wasn’t just a colleague. He was a respected grain operations supervisor with years of experience, my husband’s high school classmate, and our neighbor. The shock of losing someone so experienced and well-versed in safety was incomprehensible.

The Aftermath

As the emergency response unfolded, our office became the hub for family members, responders, and corporate leadership. The vivid snapshots of that day are etched in my memory—Rod’s wife, Jamie, coming into the office, the somber silence when she was informed, and the heartbreaking moment when she kissed Rod for the last time.

Rod’s passing was a watershed moment for our company’s safety culture. Despite our reputation as an industry leader, with robust safety systems and procedures in place, we realized that something fundamental needed to change.

The Reckoning: from Joe

Before the incident, we were proud of our safety achievements. We had reduced our incident rates by 50% and were recognized as industry leaders in safety management. However, Rod’s death was a harsh reminder that even the best systems could fail. We had focused on compliance, conditions, and non-serious injuries, believing that this would prevent severe accidents. We were wrong.

Mike Tyson once said, “Everyone has a plan until they get punched in the face.” Rod’s death was our punch, forcing us to reevaluate everything. We asked ourselves how we missed the warning signs and why we didn’t ask the right questions. Our CEO tasked us with ensuring such a tragedy would never happen again.

The Shift

We launched the Safety Improvement Initiative, bringing together representatives from across the company, external consultants, and our safety department. We sought a new path forward, guided by experts like Luis Sanchez from Behavioral Science Technologies. Luis taught us to focus on exposure, behavior, and engagement rather than just conditions.

We began by surveying our employees to understand our cultural landscape. We discovered that while employees believed we cared about their safety, safety was sometimes overshadowed by production demands. Our facilities worked in silos, lacking communication and collaboration.

The Transformation

We shifted our focus from non-serious injuries to preventing serious injuries and fatalities. We moved from a culture of compliance to one of genuine concern for our employees. We prioritized exposure over conditions, recognizing that people often get hurt by actions that intersect with hazards.

Leading with safety became a core principle. We asked ourselves three crucial questions before making decisions:

  1. How does my decision affect the safety of others?
  2. What is the impact on exposure?
  3. What is the effect on our culture?

We implemented job safety analysis, engaged employees in safety conversations, and fostered collaboration. We trained over 300 facilitators to identify and mitigate risks. We focused on feedback, using the CAR feedback method (Context, Action, Result) to provide specific and actionable guidance.

The Path Forward

Our journey didn’t stop with internal changes. We embraced near-miss reporting, sharing valuable insights across facilities to break down silos. We established accountability at all levels, incorporating safety into job descriptions and performance evaluations.

We recognized that serious injuries and fatalities often occurred during routine tasks, not just non-routine work. This insight shifted our focus to high-risk, frequent activities, ensuring our efforts aligned with actual dangers.

While implementing strategies like Hop (Human and Organizational Performance) may be complex, the essence is clear: focus on the working interface, engage employees, and lead with safety.

Rod’s memory lives on as a constant reminder of our mission. His story transformed our safety culture and reinforced our commitment to preventing similar tragedies. Safety is not just a policy; it’s a responsibility we carry with us every day.

As we move forward, let Rod’s legacy inspire us to lead with safety, embrace change, and ensure that no one else loses their life to preventable incidents. Our commitment to safety is a tribute to Rod, a testament to our growth, and a promise to protect every member of our team.

To learn more about grain engulfment training visit the complete Safety Made Simple catalog in the menu. To see the complete presentation from Convey 24, click this link for an audio only version, click here.

Confined Space Safety Measures in Tanks

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In a tragic incident highlighted by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), an agricultural worker died from asphyxiation after entering a polyethylene storage tank to repair a ball valve without practicing confined space safety measures. This incident underscores the importance of recognizing and addressing all confined space hazards in agricultural settings.

Confined Space Entry Safety Measures to reduce accidents

Incident Overview

The worker, who was attempting to repair a ball valve inside a 12’x12′ polyethylene storage tank, was lowered through a 16-inch diameter hole at the top of the tank using a forklift. The forklift operator, unable to monitor the worker’s progress inside the tank, climbed to an adjacent bin and discovered the worker lying face down at the bottom of the tank. The tank contained liquid whey, which can produce carbon dioxide gas as it decomposes. The combination of high outdoor temperatures and direct sunlight on the tank likely accelerated the decomposition of the liquid whey, releasing lethal carbon dioxide gas and reducing oxygen levels inside the tank.

Key Safety Failures

The employer failed to recognize the storage tank as a confined space with potential hazards. This tragic incident highlights the need for comprehensive safety measures to prevent similar occurrences.

Safety Recommendations

Employers can take several actions to reduce worker exposure to confined space hazards:

  1. Identify and Label Confined Spaces: Clearly label all confined spaces, including bulk liquid storage tanks, corrugated steel bins, silos, septic tanks, and fermentation vessels.
  2. Evaluate Confined Spaces for Hazards: Conduct thorough evaluations to determine if confined spaces contain actual or potential hazards.
  3. Train Workers: Ensure that workers are trained to never enter a confined space unless safety measures are in place.
  4. Use a Written Confined Space Entry Permit System: This system should ensure that:
    • Hazards are identified before entry.
    • The atmosphere is tested for oxygen content, flammability, toxicity, and explosion hazards.
    • The space is properly ventilated.
    • An attendant maintains communication with the entrant.
    • Appropriate equipment such as fall protection, retrieval systems, air monitors, personal protective equipment, and lighting are used.
  5. Develop an Emergency Action Plan: Ensure that an emergency action plan is in place and communicated to all workers.

Training and Resources

Safety Made Simple offers comprehensive courses on various safety topics, including many on confined space entry. To learn more about specific training courses built around confined spaces, click the course below:

Implementing confined space safety measures can significantly reduce the risk of incidents and ensure a safer working environment in the agricultural industry.

Environmental Risks in Confined Spaces

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In the realm of agricultural safety, understanding environmental risks in confined spaces is crucial. These hazardous environments present unique risks that demand awareness and proper safety protocols.

Why Focus on Agricultural Confined Spaces?

Agricultural confined spaces are essential for storing and handling crops. They pose serious risks to those who work in and around them. From engulfment hazards to toxic gases, these environments require careful management and adherence to safety guidelines.

Joe Mlynek, a partner at Safety Made Simple, presented for the National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) webinar series on June 18th, 2024. He discusses the hazardous environmental risks associated with agricultural confined spaces in this video link. His insights are invaluable for anyone involved in agricultural operations or safety management.

Resources

For more educational resources on grain safety and agricultural confined spaces, visit the National Grain and Feed Association‘s safety page at ngfa.org/safety. Safety Made Simple subscribers can register for the hazardous atmospheres in confined spaces course by clicking here. This session focuses on atmospheric hazards in confined spaces. By the end of this course, participants will be able to recognize the effects of oxygen deficiency on the body, identify common atmospheric hazards and their health effects, and apply safe practices for atmospheric testing and ventilation in confined spaces.

Together, with the NGFA, we prioritize safety in agricultural operations. Stay informed about the latest safety practices and resources to protect yourself and your team. Together, we can mitigate risks and create a safer working environment.

Summer Safety at Maritime Facilities

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As summer heats up, so does the need for heightened safety awareness in maritime facilities like shipping and barge loading terminals. While the water may look inviting, it poses unique risks to workers, making it essential to have proper protocols and equipment in place to ensure their safety. Here’s what every working professional in maritime settings should know to stay safe this summer:

Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs)

Personal flotation devices, such as life preservers, life jackets, or work vests, are indispensable for workers exposed to the risk of falling into the water. These PFDs must meet U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) standards, be well-maintained, and promptly replaced if any defects are identified. Proper fit and fastening are vital to ensure they remain secure and effective.

Visibility and Rescue Equipment

Enhanced visibility is crucial, especially in low-light conditions. Ensure that life jackets feature reflective material for better visibility. Additionally, well-marked life rings and lines along the dock, equipped with USCG-approved specifications, are essential for swift rescue operations. Basket stretchers, blankets, and other coverings for rescued individuals should also be readily available.

Emergency Access and Guarding

In the event of an emergency, access to fixed and portable ladders must be clear, well-marked, and maintained in good condition. Rescue ladders should extend sufficiently both above and below the water surface to facilitate safe retrieval. Furthermore, areas where workers are at risk of falling into the water should be appropriately guarded to prevent accidents.

For comprehensive guidelines on maritime safety, please refer to OSHA’s 29 CFR 1917 Marine Terminals. By adhering to these protocols and ensuring the availability of necessary equipment, employers and workers alike can mitigate risks and promote a safer working environment in maritime settings.

In the dynamic and challenging world of maritime work, prioritizing safety is not just a legal requirement but a moral obligation. By investing in proper training, equipment, and protocols, we can protect the lives and well-being of those who keep our waterway industries afloat, ensuring safety at maritime facilities.

Beat the Heat: Tips for Staying Safe This Summer

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As the temperature rises, so does the risk of heat-related illnesses. Whether you’re working outdoors or simply going about your daily work routine, it’s crucial to take precautions to protect yourself from summer weather conditions. Here are some tips for staying safe this summer.

Hydration: Quench Your Thirst, Protect Your Health

One of the most important steps you can take to prevent heat-related illnesses is to stay hydrated. When the mercury climbs, your body loses fluids through sweat, increasing the risk of dehydration. This can lead to serious conditions such as heat stroke or heat exhaustion.

The symptoms associated with heat stroke include confusion, loss of consciousness, and seizures. The symptoms associated with heat exhaustion include headache, nausea, dizziness, weakness, irritability, confusion, thirst, and heavy sweating. Immediately seek medical attention if you or your coworker experience these symptoms.

To stay properly hydrated, and avoid heat stroke or exhaustion, make sure to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day, especially if you’re engaging in physical activity. Water is always a good choice, but for longer periods of exertion (two hours or more), replenish with electrolytes from sports drinks, electrolyte-infused water, or coconut water. Remember to drink at least one cup (8 ounces) of water every 20 minutes while working in the heat to keep your body cool and hydrated.

Rest: Take a Break, Beat the Heat

In addition to staying hydrated, it’s important to give your body the rest it needs to recover from the heat. As temperatures soar, so should the frequency and duration of your breaks. Listen to your body and take breaks as needed, even if you’re tempted to push through the heat.

The length of your breaks will depend on various factors, including the environmental heat, your level of physical activity, and any personal risk factors you may have. Whenever possible, seek out a cooler location to rest, whether it’s in the shade outdoors, an air-conditioned vehicle or building, or an area with fans and misting devices.

Remember, skipping breaks in hot conditions is not safe, so prioritize your well-being and take time to rest as heat stress rises.

Shade: Find Shelter from the Sun

When working outdoors, seek shelter in shady areas to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays. Whether it’s under a tree, in a tent, or near a building, finding shade can provide much-needed relief from the heat. If you’re indoors, make sure to rest in a cool area away from heat sources such as ovens, boilers, or furnaces.

By following these tips for staying safe this summer, you can help reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses and stay safe while being productive during the summer months. Remember, water, rest, and shade are your best allies in the battle against the heat stress. Stay hydrated, take breaks as needed, and seek shelter from the sun to beat the heat and stay healthy all summer long.

Essential Safety Inspection Checklist for Grain Facility Managers

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Safety inspections are a fundamental part of maintaining a secure and efficient grain facility. As a safety manager, your role in leading these inspections is crucial for identifying, eliminating, and controlling workplace hazards. Essential Safety Inspection Checklist for Grain Facility Managers outlines an essential checklist and best practices to enhance your safety protocols.

Effective safety inspections start with the right team. Include diverse roles in your inspection team, such as management and operational staff, and consider rotating team members to incorporate fresh perspectives and extend educational benefits across your facility. This variety not only improves hazard identification but also fosters a culture of safety among all employees. Consider this role as a part of your Safety Made Simple training journey and implement the courses accordingly.

Safety Inspection Checklist:

1. Operation Housekeeping:

  • Ensure that all walkways and work areas are free of grain dust and debris to prevent slips, trips, and falls.
  • Keep emergency exits and routes clearly marked and unobstructed to ensure a safe evacuation in case of emergencies.
  • Properly store and label hazardous chemicals to avoid health risks and chemical accidents.
  • Maintain electrical panels and energy isolating devices to be easily accessible and free of obstructions, enhancing response times during emergencies.
  • Regularly assess the overall cleanliness and organization of the facility to promote a safe and productive work environment.
  • Eliminate and control combustible dust in priority housekeeping areas.

2. Fire Protection and Security:

  • Secure all fixed ladders during non-operational hours to prevent unauthorized access and potential accidents.
  • Regularly inspect perimeter fences and facility gates for integrity and functionality.
  • Ensure that all security systems, including surveillance cameras, are operational, which helps in monitoring and controlling access to sensitive areas.
  • Enforce strict adherence to visitor protocols and hot work permit procedures to maintain control over facility access and high-risk activities.
  • Conduct monthly inspections and annual certifications of fire extinguishers to guarantee readiness in case of a fire.

3. Facility Safety:

  • Inspect and maintain guarding on all mechanical moving parts, such as augers, conveyor tail pulleys, V-belt drives, and rotating shafts,to prevent entanglement and other machinery-related injuries.
  • Label and check the functionality of all energy isolating devices to facilitate quick and effective responses in shutting down equipment during an emergency and effective lockout tagout activities.
  • Regularly check that all electrical enclosures are securely closed and that intrinsically safe equipment is used in  Class II hazardous locaitons.
  • Verify the condition and safety compliance of all tools and equipment, including portable ladders and fall protection gear, to ensure they are free from damage and functional.

4. Employee Behaviors:

  • Monitor adherence to isolation and lock-out/tag-out procedures to prevent accidental equipment startups.
  • Ensure that all personnel consistently wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and follow safe lifting practices to minimize the risk of injury.
  • Promote the use of correct tools for specific tasks and check that these tools are in good working condition.
  • Ensure that employees adhere to confined space entry and bin-entry procedures.

Routine safety inspections are vital for preventing accidents and ensuring the smooth operation of grain elevators and facilities. By following this Essential Safety Inspection Checklist for Grain Facility Managers and involving a diverse team in your safety protocols, you can significantly enhance workplace safety and operational efficiency. Remember, a proactive approach to safety can lead to a healthier work environment and more productive operations.

Building a Culture of Safety: Accountability from the Ground Up

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NGFA Safety Webinar – Accountability

Workplace safety accountability is a cornerstone of workplace safety and fosters a culture where safety protocols are not just followed but integrated into the daily operations of an organization.

Joe Mlynek, CSP, OHST, founder of Progressive Safety Services, LLC and co-owner of Safety Made Simple shares his research and work around employee engagement, responsibility and how accountability for personal safety can institute a culture of workplace safety. This seasoned agricultural safety professional takes a deep dive into defining safe behaviors, performance evaluations and the progressive discipline that can implement change in a recent National Grain and Feed Association webinar.

The Evolution of Workplace Safety Accountability

Mlynek opened the webinar by reflecting on the evolution of workplace safety accountability over the years.

“Ten years ago, we struggled to get people to attend a session like this,” he notes, highlighting the initial challenges in drawing attention to progressive safety topics such as accountability. However, he observes a significant shift in recent years, “We’ve already doubled our participation level today, versus ten years ago,” indicating a growing industry-wide recognition of the importance of best practices over mere compliance.

Defining Accountability in Safety

The definition of accountability isn’t blurry for Mlynek and he shares that it shouldn’t be for companies working to implement a stronger workplace safety culture, either. We all play a part – we’re all responsible for helping to ensure a safe workplace.

“Accountability is being responsible to someone or for some actions.” He emphasizes that accountability in the workplace transcends hierarchical boundaries, involving everyone from senior managers to frontline employees.

“When we look at who’s accountable for safety, the answer is everyone,” he asserts, underlining the collective responsibility for maintaining a safe working environment.

Strategies to Foster Workplace Safety Accountability

One of the key strategies Mlynek discusses is the establishment of clear expectations and the communication of these standards to all employees.

“Years ago when I worked for a large agribusiness company, they had an employee bill of rights as part of their mission statement,” he recalls, pointing out the importance of employees knowing what is expected of them and being held to those standards.

He also stresses the shift from compliance to commitment, where employees are encouraged to take ownership of safety issues and exceed expectations.

“With accountability, that’s the shift that we want to make,” Mlynek explains.

The Role of Feedback

Mlynek highlights the critical role of feedback in promoting accountability. He describes two types of feedback:

Positive Feedback — a reinforcement of good practices

Guidance Feedback — a crucial management tool when corrective actions are needed.

The CAR Model: A Framework for Delivering Feedback

One of the key highlights from Mlynek’s approach is the CAR model, which stands for Context, Action, Result. This model provides a structured framework for delivering feedback that is both constructive and empowering. By using this model, managers can communicate feedback in a way that is clear and impactful, making it easier for employees to understand their actions’ implications and the expected outcomes.

For instance, if an employee is observed using safety equipment correctly, a manager might say, “I noticed you were using your safety glasses and face shield while operating the grinder. This is great because it significantly reduces the risk of eye injuries, which are common with such equipment. Thank you for following safety protocols.”

This example of positive feedback not only acknowledges the correct action but also reinforces the safe behavior by linking it to a positive result.

Implementing Progressive Discipline

Discussing the implementation of progressive discipline, Mlynek clarifies that the goal is not to punish but to alter behavior to prevent safety incidents.

“The goal is not to punish the person, it’s really to change or alter their behavior,” he states. This approach involves a step-by-step escalation process, ensuring that employees have opportunities to correct their actions before more severe steps are taken.

Conclusion: The Impact of Accountability on Safety Culture

In conclusion, Mlynek’s insights shed light on the transformative power of workplace safety accountability in enhancing good safety practices. By establishing clear expectations, fostering commitment over compliance, effectively using feedback, and implementing progressive discipline, organizations can create a safety culture where accountability is deeply embedded.

“Accountability is a positive thing… as leaders in the safety arena, we need to understand that our teams want to succeed and we need to help them do so,” he shares.

His expertise and practical advice offer valuable guidance for organizations aiming to strengthen their safety protocols through the powerful tool of accountability.