Farm incidents can sometimes happen because of oxygen deficiencies. As harvest approaches, silos, bunkers, and bags will start to get filled. Manure will start to be hauled out to the chopped-off fields, making it peak application season. In an Agri-Safe webinar, Chiemezie Anthony Udemba of The Ohio State University noted areas to be mindful of when working around toxic fumes this time of year.
Oxygen deficiency occurs when air drops below 20.9% oxygen by volume. Levels below this elevate the risk of unconsciousness, or even death. Spending time in small areas is also not recommended, especially spaces that have limited amounts of doors that allow you to enter or exit. Tanks, silos, and manholes are prime examples of these confined spaces on a farm. Before entering, it is important to recognize that these areas are dangerous environments and are associated with many hazards such as toxic fumes, oxygen deficiency, and physical entrapment.
Toxic fumes are gases, vapors, or mists that come from chemical reactions and industry processes, said Udemba. Industrial chemicals such as solvents, cleaning agents, and chemicals used in manufacturing can emit toxic fumes. Volatile organic compounds such as paints and varnishes along with fumes from combustion by-products and decomposition gasses are all contributors to fumes, too.
Oxygen deficiency results from poor ventilation, chemical reactions, biological processes, or the presence of inert gasses. Often times, farmers encounter these fumes while working in confined spaces on their dairy. Although working in these spaces is inevitable, it is important to remember what leads to incidents that occur in these areas. A lack of proper training, inadequate preparedness, insufficient communication, and failure to test and monitor air quality are all key players. “Workers may not be adequately trained to recognize and respond to the hazards of confined spaces,” he noted. Before entering, make sure you know the oxygen levels and have proper rescue plans and equipment in place.
As we approach the midst of harvest, it is important to think before doing. Too often we get caught up in a time crunch and try to do tasks quickly, without even thinking. This is when incidents happen. To avoid problems caused by oxygen deficiencies, toxic fumes, and confined spaces, have proper ventilation, proper protective equipment, an emergency plan, and monitor oxygen levels. Don’t get caught up in an event or even a death that could have been easily avoided.
