OSHA and its alliance partner, the National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA), in cooperation with the Grain Elevator and Processing Society (GEAPS) and the American Feed Industry Association (AFIA), will hold the second annual “Stand-Up for Grain Engulfment Prevention Week,” April 9-13.
Due to the number of fatalities and injuries attributable to engulfment and entrapments in grain bins on family farms and at commercial grain handling facilities, the National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) is working with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to host an awareness week to remind both employers and employees about common entrapment hazards and available NGFA and OSHA training material.
There were 60 confirmed grain bin entrapments and incidents in confined spaces on U.S. farms in 2016, according to Purdue University. That’s a 27% increase from 2015, and Purdue estimates that an additional 30% of cases go unreported each year. This year’s event, which will help raise awareness about grain bin dangers, provide education and share safety best practices.
Topics include grain bin entry, mechanical hazards, and grain engulfment. A free webinar on April 10 will emphasize ways to reduce injuries and prevent fatalities from engulfment, and toolbox talks on lockout/tagout, fall prevention, and grain handling. Industry employers and workers are encouraged to host or participate in local stand-up events. Visit the campaign website for more information and details.
