OSHA and the National Grain and Feed Association are teaming up to promote safety efforts in the grain handling industry.
The two organizations are collaborating in conjunction with the American Feed Industry Association and the Great Plains Chapter of the Grain Elevator and Processing Society to host Stand-Up for Grain Engulfment Prevention Week from April 9 through 13.
“Employees in the grain industry must be trained on grain-handling hazards, and have the necessary tools to ensure they enter and leave a bin or silo safely,” said Kimberly Stille, OSHA regional administrator, in a statement. “This campaign is intended to encourage industry leaders, farmers, and workers to implement best practices and effective safety and health programs to save lives.”
The campaign, which aims to provide information, guidance, and access to resources to help protect workers, includes a free webinar held on April 10 that will emphasize ways to prevent injuries and fatalities from grain bin engulfment, with toolbox talks on lockout/tagout, fall preventio, and grain handling.
In support of the prevention week, the University of Texas-Arlington has established a website with information on hosting or participating in local stand-up events, and educational resources for the grain industry.