Electrical Safety in Agriculture

1. According to the National Ag Safety Database (NASD), 290 accidental electrocutions occur each year, and 800 people die in fires that are caused by faulty electrical systems every year. In addition, many more individuals suffer from electrical burns or shocks as a result from accidental contact with electricity.

2. Electricity is an electrical current that is made up of electrons that flow from one atom to another into any material. Conductors are materials that allow electricity to flow through them more easily than others, like metals and moisture. Insulators are materials that interrupt that electrical current, like rubber, plastic and glass. Since farms are dusty and full of moisture they are at high risk for electrical hazards.

3. Faulty wiring, misuse of electrical equipment, damaged, worn, or frayed wiring are just a few possible causes of electrical fires, shocks, and explosions.

4. Inspect electrical cords and wires for any signs of damage, corrosion, wear and tear.

5. Always determine the electrical wiring type based on the environment the electrical wiring is being exposed to. UF cable wiring is rated for dry, damp, wet or corrosive environments, ideal for agricultural settings, but keep in mind it cannot be embedded in poured concrete.

6. Always use a shock protection system when operating electrical equipment and tools, like permanent or portable ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCI). Converting two-conductor circuits to three-wire, grounding-type circuits, and using proper double insulated tools are additional options of shock protection systems.

7. If electrical conduits are being used, it is important to inspect and maintain in order to reduce the risk of exposure to electricity.

8. Use an extension cord with the correct size gauge for the intended use and do not overload an extension cord. For example a household extension cord cannot be used to operate heavy-duty machinery.

9. Handle and maintain electrical power tools with care. Avoid dropping, unplugging by pulling on the cord, and improper storage in order to maintain the insulation on the conductors that otherwise can be damaged from poor maintenance and use.

10. Reduce the risk of electrical hazards by being aware of your environment. Agriculture workers are susceptible to several other forms of electrical hazards because of the frequent use of tall equipment such as grain augers, combines, irrigation systems, and industrial vehicles. Take note of the location of overhead power lines, especially when operating or moving any tall equipment.

11. Since water is an electrical conductor, our bodies easily allow electrical currents to pass through them. Livestock can als be affected because they are naturally grounded, which makes them more susceptible to electrical shock.

12. Always inspect agricultural machinery for electrical hazards such as leaks, loose missing components,faulty wiring or battery connections. Combines are a great example because the accumulation of grain and crop residue can become combustible. If there is any concern of a fire while operating the machinery, shut off the machine immediately by turning off the ignition and removing the key.

13. What do you do if any of the following electrical accidents occur: Fire or explosion? Electrocution or shock? Entanglement with overhead power lines?

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