What is a Silo?
What are Some of the Risks Associated with Silos?
Unfortunately, every year hundreds of people die or are injured from accidents involving silos. Some examples include:
- Engulfment
- Electrocution
- Falling
- Silo gas inhalation
OSHA and Silos
Some silos qualify as “Confined Spaces” per the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) definition. Be sure to find out whether your silo falls under this category. If it does, you must follow OSHA guidelines and provide the proper safety equipment for employees.
Silo Safety Tips for Farmers
Entering a Silo
- Only enter a silo when absolutely necessary.
- Always have three people. One person to perform work inside, another to monitor the worker, and a third to call for help if needed.
- Be sure to strap up with a rope and harness before entering, don’t solely rely on ladders.
- If you find yourself trapped inside, keep moving and try to swim through the product to get to a ladder.
- When entering an empty silo, use an oxygen-supplying respirator. Fermented feeds can create nitrogen and carbon dioxide that displaces oxygen.
Additional Silo Tips
- Keep silos locked and barricaded to prevent unauthorized access.
- Never allow people inside or near the silo when it is being loaded or unloaded.
- Ladders up the side of the silo should be at least 7 feet off the ground and kept in good condition.
- Don’t keep portable ladders used to access the silo in the immediate area
Agribusiness & Farm Insurance
About Ianniello Insurance Agency
Ianniello Insurance Agency is Northeast Ohio’s premier provider of auto insurance, life insurance, home insurance, agribusiness insurance, farm insurance, business insurance and health insurance. You can count on our personalized service to meet your needs. We take our time to ensure there are no gaps in your coverage. We proudly serve Coshocton, Holmes, and Tuscarawas Counties. Get in touch today for a quote and follow us on Facebook to stay in touch!
