At Good Day’s Work, we know that harvest marks the payoff for months of effort—a season of long hours, dedication, and big goals. But above all, we believe that nothing matters more than safety. Every year, we train and support agricultural teams so they can work efficiently and return home safe. The fast pace and powerful equipment on today’s farms create risks, but most accidents are preventable with the right habits and planning.
Here’s our essential advice to help you, your family, and your crew stay safe during harvest.
Prepare Before the First Pass
Safety is a season-long commitment, and it begins well before your machines hit the field.
Our experience shows that carefully preparing your equipment and providing solid training for your team are the foundations for a safe, productive harvest.
Equipment Maintenance That Matters
We recommend these proven steps to maximize uptime and minimize risks:
Train Your Crew—Every Year
At Good Day’s Work, we prioritize consistent training for employees of every experience level.
- Kick-off Safety Meeting: Begin harvest with a team meeting to outline hazards, review emergency plans, and discuss specific job risks.
- Hands-On Training: Demonstrate correct machine operation and highlight emergency shutdown procedures.
- Clear Communication: Provide two-way radios or set clear hand signals so every team member can communicate effectively, even around noisy equipment.
Before you head to the field, make sure your team is equipped with the latest safety knowledge and know-how. See how our classes can help your crew work smarter and safer throughout the season.
Everyday Best Practices in the Field
Harvest tasks are repetitive and demanding; staying alert is crucial.
Stop Machinery Entanglement
We routinely teach that entanglement is among the most severe risks in agriculture. Avoid it by:
- Power Down First: Always shut down machines completely before clearing blockages or performing repairs.
- Safe Distance: Establish safety zones around all operating machinery for both workers and visitors.
- Tight Clothing: Promote the use of snug work clothes and secure long hair to prevent accidents.
Respect Grain Bin Hazards
Our safety training covers grain bin dangers in detail because they are often underestimated.
- Don’t Enter With Flowing Grain: Never enter a bin when grain is moving—entrapment happens in seconds. Always lock out unloading equipment first.
- Safety Harness: If entry is unavoidable, use a harness and lifeline with two trained spotters nearby.
- Watch for Bridged Grain: Beware of crusted grain that may collapse. Use a pole from outside to break up any clumps.
- Air Quality: Test for gases and ensure proper ventilation before anyone enters a bin.
Take Care of Yourself and Your Team
We know that a safe harvest is about more than just machines—it’s about people.
Fight Fatigue
Fatigue is both common and dangerous. Here’s how we recommend managing it:
- Prioritize Rest: Encourage daily sleep of 7-8 hours for all team members.
- Breaks Matter: Plan short, regular breaks during long shifts to keep attention sharp.
- Hydrate and Eat Well: Stock plenty of water and nutritious food for everyone on site.
- Know the Signs: Look out for fatigue symptoms—slowed response, yawning, losing focus—and support team members in taking needed breaks.
Always Have an Emergency Plan
Through our trainings, we stress that preparedness can save lives:
A Safe Harvest is a Good Day’s Work
At Good Day’s Work, safety is central to everything we do—training, consulting, and supporting farms like yours. When every worker finishes the season healthy and the job is done right, that’s our definition of success. Make safety routines a habit, stay vigilant, and you’ll not only protect your people but guarantee the reward of a truly good day’s work.
