National Hay Safe Day
Today is National Hay Safe Day, focused on improving safety within the Australian hay and silage industry.
Anita had the story on the Country Viewpoint.
To mark the day, the Australian Fodder Industry Association (AFIA) is asking everyone involved in the industry to run through the “Make sure your workplace is HAY SAFE” checklist everyday.
The checklist includes ensuring:
Machinery is securely shutdown before maintenance occurs.
Adequate safety guards are fitted to machinery.
Fire extinguishers and first aid kits are functional and located close to baling operations.
Prominent signage warning of the dangers of falling bales clearly displayed in hay sheds.
Prominent signage warning of the dangers of moving vehicles displayed in hay sheds.
Warning signs clearly displayed on all machinery.
Plant operators are familiar with relevant safety procedures.
All caution lights and reversing alarms are operational on machinery.
Dry flammable crop materials are regularly removed from build-up areas on machinery.
Operators are familiar with changing work environments and possible hazards such as power lines and poles.
National Hay Safe Day is an AFIA initiative, created by AFIA member, Director, fodder grower and hay exporter, Suzanne Woods from Calingiri in Western Australia.
On October 25, 2009, Suzanne tragically lost her father in an accident on their farm.
National Hay Safe Day is part of his ongoing legacy.
For more information on safety in the Australia fodder industry, visit afia.org.au.