Agriculture / Farming Safety Checklist

Machinery & Equipment

Tractors and machinery are inspected before use. Guards and shields are in place on equipment. PTO shafts and moving parts are properly shielded. Fuel and chemicals are stored safely away from ignition sources.

Field & Livestock

Workers wear appropriate clothing and footwear for the task. Livestock handling is done with proper training and equipment. Heat and sun protection measures are in place. First aid kits are available in the field and on vehicles.

General Operations

Workers are trained on equipment before operating it. Children and unauthorized persons are kept away from hazardous areas. Electrical systems and wiring are regularly inspected. Incidents and near misses are reported promptly.

Tractor & Vehicle Safety

Confirm tractors have roll-over protection (ROPS) and operators use seat belts. Guard power-take-off (PTO) shafts and keep bystanders clear when running. Display slow-moving-vehicle emblems and clean working lights on equipment. Inspect brakes, steering, and tires before field or road use.

Chemical & Pesticide Handling

Wear labelled PPE (gloves, goggles, respirator) when mixing or applying. Store pesticides in locked, original containers with SDS accessible. Rinse empty containers per label and never reuse for other purposes. Observe re-entry intervals before workers return to treated areas.

Livestock Handling

Use proper handling facilities and avoid working alone with agitated animals. Wear sturdy footwear and protective clothing to reduce kick/bite injury. Maintain clear escape routes in pens, chutes, and milking areas. Vaccinate and monitor stock for zoonotic disease signs.

Grain & Silo Safety

Never enter a grain bin while it is being loaded or unloaded (engulfment risk). Lock out augers and equipment before clearing blockages. Test air and use a permit for any confined-space entry. Keep silo decks, ladders, and catwalks free of spoilage and debris.

Heat, Sun & Fatigue

Provide shaded rest breaks and encourage regular hydration. Supply sunscreen, hats, and light long-sleeve coverage for sun exposure. Train staff to recognise heat exhaustion and heat stroke symptoms. Schedule demanding tasks for cooler parts of the day where possible.