Transporting hay is a necessary and fairly common task for farmers and ranchers. It is the type of task we do often enough to take for granted. However, a round bale can weigh between 1,200 to 2,200 pounds. If handled incorrectly, a bale could land on a person and have fatal consequences.
Keep these rules in mind to keep you, your workers and your family safe.
Check that the couplings between tractors and trailers are properly secured.
Do not move partly loaded trailers over slopes or areas of rough ground which could cause bales to be dislodged.
Determine and inspect driving routes over pasture land in advance and instruct drivers accordingly.
Plan road travel to avoid overhead obstructions, such as trees and low bridges.
When transporting bales by tractor and attachment, carry the bale as low as practicable to the ground.
Tractor stability may be affected if carrying bales at raised heights over uneven terrain or turning too sharply.
If stopping to open gates, lower the load to the ground before getting off the tractor.
Ensure people in the vicinity are clear of the driving route during transportation.
Travel at a safe speed.
Ensure that no one rides on any machinery, particular the drawbars of trailer units.
References: Check out these tips and more information on safe hay handling at http://www.osh.govt.nz/order/catalogue/pdf/haybales.pdf.
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