16 Tractor & Equipment Safety
Common Hazards:
- Rollovers & Tip-Overs – Uneven terrain, sharp turns, and improper weight distribution increase the risk.
- Entanglement Risks – Loose clothing, gloves, or hair can get caught in moving parts.
- Hearing Damage – Prolonged exposure to engine noise (90-100 decibels) can lead to permanent hearing loss.
- Carbon Monoxide Poisoning – Running machinery in enclosed spaces can lead to toxic fume buildup.
- Crush & Runover Accidents – Bystanders, improper hitching, or falling from equipment increase injury risks.
Addressing Hazards:
- Use Rollover Protection (ROPS) – Properly installed roll bars and seat belts reduce fatality risk by 99%.
- Avoid Loose Clothing – Wear fitted workwear and tie back long hair to prevent entanglement.
- Wear Hearing Protection – Use earplugs or noise-reducing earmuffs when exposed to sounds over 85 decibels.
- Ensure Proper Ventilation – Never run engines inside enclosed buildings to prevent toxic gas buildup.
- Follow Safe Hitching & Attachment Practices – Shut off power before adjusting machinery and use correct hitching points.
Mental Health Impacts:
- Fear & Anxiety – Past accidents or close calls can create stress and hesitation when operating equipment.
- Financial Strain – Equipment failures or repairs can create added expenses and loss of productivity.
- Workplace Isolation – Long hours on machinery can lead to mental fatigue and social disconnection.
Addressing Mental Health:
- Take Breaks & Stretch Regularly – Helps prevent exhaustion and maintain focus.
- Keep a Maintenance Schedule – Preventative care reduces unexpected breakdowns and stress.
- Train Workers & Family Members – Confidence in safe equipment operation reduces workplace anxiety.
- Stay Connected – Use radios or check-ins to maintain communication and reduce isolation.
Nebraska AgrAbility. (2024). Rehabilitating Nebraska farmers and ranchers with disabilities workshop
University of Nebraska Medical Center. (2025). Tractor safety (CS-CASH Resources). University of Nebraska Medical Center. Retrieved February 25, 2025, from https://www.unmc.edu/publichealth/cscash/_documents/_resources/resources-tractor-safety.pdf