Guide On How To Use Tractors Safely

Unfortunately, people often get seriously injured when dealing with tractor-operated machinery. In order to prevent accidents, it is important to follow certain safety rules and respect safety procedures.

Make sure you read the manufacturer’s operating instructions and always proceed with precaution. Even if you have years of experience, always be careful when maneuvering tractor-operated machinery and when connecting various implements like bale grabber, rock bucket, tractor fertilizer spreader, tractor carry all, cultivator, etc.

1. Firstly, you need to inspect the tractor to make sure all is in good condition and working properly. Make sure tires are properly inflated, without blisters and cuts and excessive tread wear. If you are using a PTO (power take off device), then make sure the PTO shield is in place and spins independently of the PTO shaft and never forget to do that manually when the power machine is off. Never step over a spinning drive shaft since the PTO shaft has a wrapping hazard that can tangle clothing, hair or jewelery around itself.

2. Next, check the fluid level and potential leaks. If the fluid level is low or there are excessive spots under the fluid reservoir, then take the tractor for a thorough inspection. Also, inspect headlights and turn signals as they are important safety features. When on the road, do not forget to place clean SMV (slow moving vehicle) sign on a visible place for other road participants to easily notice you.

3. Aside from conducting a thorough inspection of your tractor, make sure you are 100% prepared for work. Consuming alcohol or other drugs is strongly prohibited since it can affect your driving alertness and judgment and thus put your and others in jeopardy. Depending on the field task, choose the right tractor implements to faster and efficiently complete your work. Also, when attaching them use jacks or other supports to hold the implement in position as to relieve pressure on the hydraulic cylinders. Always clean attachments after every use to ensure long service life.

4. Tractor–operated machinery are a one-person tasks. Only one person can operate so make sure it is either you or someone with experience. Also, do not allow others to climb on tractor, especially not children as this is very dangerous and life threatening. Never try to mount or dismount from a moving tractor. First make sure the engine is not running, parking break is on and climb from the left side facing the gear. Always adjust the seat so that all controls are easy to reach and fasten the seat belt in order to create a safe environment not only for yourself but others too.

5. When operating heavy machines, take your time when driving, never go over the speed limit and have other person help you when backing up with trailing implements for greater safety. In order to drive the tractor safely, make sure you do not overload it, reduce speed when turning and avoid being close to ditches in order to prevent the tractor from rolling over to a side.