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January, 2000
ACCIDENT CLIPS AND SAFETY TIPS:
Agents Learn About 14- and 15-Year-Old Youths Tractor Training
On January 10th and 11th a labor training seminar for MSUE agents was held at the Michigan Farm Bureau Center. During the two-day session, labor issues concerning youth on farms and non-farm agricultural operations were discussed. I offered a one-page sheet comparing the two tractor training programs. The 4-H tractor training program is compared to the training requirements of the Agriscience tractor training program. If you did not receive your training comparison sheet or wish another, please e-mail your request. Due to formatting, it is not available via e-mail—as the comparison columns get lost in translation—but can be faxed or mailed.
This information can help you determine what topics must be covered and how a joint 4-H/ Agriscience tractor training program could work in your county or multi-county area. Both programs use the same student manual. Check this out and start a tractor safety class now so employers can legally employ 14- and 15-year-old youths.
A letter with this strategy was sent to both teachers and extension agents and directors.
Howard Doss
PREVENTING THE "SILENT" INJURY
Agricultural Work Can
Contain Excessive Noise
Michigan has an occupational noise exposure standard. Agriculture is not covered by the current Michigan occupational noise unless you have an employee complain to MIOSHA.
Certain jobs in agriculture are associated with high noise levels:
Agricultural Noise Level
| (By Source, typical examples) |
dB* |
| Tractor, without cab, average |
96 |
| Electric Hand Drill |
98 |
| Grain Dryer, fan at 20 feet |
99 |
| Hammermill, at 10 feet |
101 |
| Impact Wrench |
103 |
| Bulldozer, average |
105 |
| Combine, older type w/o cab |
105 |
| Chain Saw, gasoline |
110 |
|
Corn Picker, 2-row pull type |
110 |
| Hammer Drill |
114 |
| Shotgun, 12 gauge |
165 |
Methods to Reduce Noise
To solve a noise problem, reduce noise a) at the source; b) on the path to
the ear; or c) at the ear. Hearing protection is usually an effective and
inexpensive way of controlling unwanted noise.
Earmuffs can reduce sound levels by 15 to 30 dB and usually provide the most hearing protection. In general, earplugs work best in the higher sound frequencies, if the proper fit is achieved. You could combine wearing earplugs with earmuffs for 3 to 5 dB more protection than just wearing earmuffs alone.
SAFETY TIP: Hearing loss is a gradual process for most people. It is usually painless. It is a silent injury. We all lose our ability to hear due to aging. Protect what you have left of your ability to hear. Train employees and family members in the proper use and fit of ear protection.
No mater what type of hearing protection you choose, remember that the only effective hearing protector is the one YOU WEAR.
Howard Doss
