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Best Management Practices. Best Management Practices = Guides for working safely. Requirements Before Operating a Tractor. Operator should have received training on how to safely operate the tractor
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Best Management Practices = Guides for working safely
Requirements Before Operating a Tractor • Operator should have received training on how to safely operate the tractor • Youth aged 14 and 15 cannot operate tractors on a farm owned by someone other than their parents unless they have been through the 24-hour tractor safety course • Operators should go through a routine checklist before starting the tractor each time
Before turning the key… • Tractor operators should be familiar with the operator’s manual • The operator’s manual should be in the tractor cab or in an accessible place
Check the outside of the tractor • Tire pressure and tire wear • Exterior lights are working • SMV emblem in place • Clean off mud, trash, etc from access steps • All shields and guards in place, esp. PTO shields • Check fluid levels, fuel and hydraulic lines • Fenders are in place
Access Steps • Most common farm injury – slips and falls • Mud makes steps very slippery • Always go down the steps facing the tractor
PTO and Shields • PTO = power take-off • Powers towed implements • Rotates at very high speeds (540 rpm or 1000 rpm) • Covered by a shield to prevent entanglement PTO Master Shield PTO Shaft
PTO Demonstration Video Video courtesy of Clemson University Extension
PTO Rules • Always shut off the PTO before leaving the operator’s station • Always have the PTO covered with a shield • Never step over a PTO – even if the shield is in place
Fenders • Help protect operator from debris • Prevent operator contact with wheels
Operator’s Station • Keep operator’s station free of debris and clutter
Rear View Mirrors • Help the driver see in more directions • Damaged mirrors need to be replaced or repaired • Adjust the mirrors to fit you
More inside checks • Check to be sure all control lights and gauges are working • Adjust the operator’s seat to fit you • Check brakes • Check steering
In review… • Make sure you’re a qualified operator • Go through your pre-operations checklist before operating the tractor • Check the tires, lights, shields, fluids, etc • Check the controls, adjust the mirrors and seat, etc