Learning essential tractor safety tips can make a huge difference when operating this type of machine. To that end, read this post by Schell Distributing Inc. in Idaho Falls.

Nowadays, the tractor market comprises many different types of machines; for example, you can find utility tractors, agricultural tractors, sub-compact or compact ones, lawn tractors, and more. Each category has a different size, function, and features; however, they all share something in common: they must be operated carefully. Driving a heavy and complex machine requires a lot of precautions to avoid hazardous situations. Fortunately, the number of tractor-related fatal injuries has decreased from 2016 to 2018 (last published data) according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor; however, there are still instances where tractors overturn or accidentally collide, causing injuries to operators and people around the machine. To prevent and avoid those risks, make sure to follow the tractor safety tips listed below by Schell Distributing Inc.

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First, Read Your Operator's Manual

Regardless of the type of tractor you intend to operate, you must read your operator's manual to start off on the right foot. Inside its pages, you'll find specific information that might be challenging to find somewhere else, such as the machine's warranty details, its technical specifications, or troubleshooting. Nonetheless, you want to start by the contents regarding safety; to that end, make sure to read the following information:

• Safety labels and procedures: You'll find information about your tractor's safety labels within your operator's manual contents. Understanding the meaning behind each warning, caution, and danger label will allow you to identify your tractor's operational limitations and potential hazards. Plus, it's super important to read about the procedures you should follow to operate the machine safely if a risk arises.
• Operating controls: You must refer to your operator's manual to determine each control's location, function, and use form. For example, if you are unsure of how to operate the tractor's hydraulic control lever, you can find instructions inside the manual.
• Maintenance and service intervals: Given that a well-maintained tractor is safer to run, you should comply with your tractor's required maintenance; to that end, look through the service intervals stated in your manual.

Get a Tractor Driving Training

When it comes to tractor safety, getting proper training comes in handy to take your driving skills up a notch. Plus, learning from an experienced instructor will lead you to develop basic abilities any tractor operator should have in order to handle hazardous situations safely, such as spatial awareness, focus, coordination, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.

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Use Your Tractor's Rollover Protective Structure and Seat Belt

Are you familiar with your tractor's ROPS? A Rollover Protective Structure refers to the row bar intended to protect you if your tractor rolls over. Considering that rollovers are the most common type of tractor hazard, it's crucial to buckle your seat belt and use the ROPS whenever you are operating your tractor. Hence, if a high-risk situation arises, your seat belt would hold you while the row bar creates a shield around you to minimize any potential injury.

Wear Tractor Safety Gear

If you want to operate your tractor safely, you got to dress the part. To that end, you must protect yourself from working under the sun on loose ground terrains by wearing the proper attire. Here's what you should wear every time you drive your tractor:

• Snug-fitting clothes: Although wearing flared pants or baggy shirts is comfortable, loose clothing can get caught in your tractor's moving parts; therefore, opt for wearing snug-fitting pants and shirts instead. Plus, if you want to avoid sunburns, make sure to wear long sleeves.
• Hat or cap: Another way to protect yourself from the sun is wearing a hat or a cap; that way, you'll avoid face sunburns and light sensitivity in your eyes.
• Boots: Protecting your ankles is vital when walking through rough terrain to get on and off your tractor; to that end, wear sturdy boots with ankle support and non-slip soles.
• Leather gloves: You might be surprised at how comfortable and warm your hands will be covered in gloves while driving your tractor during winter. Furthermore, using gloves provides a stronger grip on the tractor's operative controls.

Assess the Terrain You'll be Working at

Lastly, it's worth mentioning that operating a heavy tractor around a terrain with unknown ditches, large rocks, or stumps can lead to a disaster; therefore, always ensure to inspect the area you'll be working at as part of your tractor driving routine. If you find hazardous obstacles, remove them to clear the field; as for non-removable obstructions, you can place a flag or a warning sign to be wary around them.

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