Another harvest season, another record shattered. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) latest crop reports, 2025 is shaping up to be a banner year for U.S. grain production:
- Corn: 15.8 billion bushels
- Soybeans: 4.34 billion
- Wheat: 1.921 billion
- Sorghum: 99.5 million, more than double last year’s total
Pair that with hefty beginning inventories, and grain elevators across the country are bracing for what may be their most intense harvest yet.
But with big numbers come big challenges. Many facilities are still juggling carryover grain from 2024, and now they face an even larger wave. In this environment, efficiency is critical — but not at the expense of safety.
Traffic control on-site should be a top priority. Clear signage at entry points, throughout the facility and near exits can prevent confusion and reduce accident risk. Remind crews to watch for cross-traffic before stepping into any drive paths. A split-second mistake during peak flow can cost much more than lost time.
Then there’s the issue of bin entry. When equipment clogs or hot spots flare, the urge to fix things quickly is strong. But shortcuts can be deadly. Permits, lockout procedures, harnesses, air tests and communication lines aren’t mere suggestions — they’re life-saving requirements.
Fatigue is another silent threat. Long hours, skipped meals and sleep deprivation are all too common. Managers can help by hiring extra hands, rotating shifts and avoiding incentive schemes that encourage unsafe overwork.
While we're breaking harvest records, the most important record we can set is zero accidents. Safety isn’t a luxury during harvest time — it should be the foundation of your culture.
Let’s meet the moment with the preparation and respect it demands.
