Confined Space Safety

National Farm Safety and Health Week is rolling and Thursday’s topic is Confined Spaces.

Grain entrapment remains one of the deadliest and most preventable hazards in American agriculture. Despite advances in safety equipment and awareness, incidents continue to occur at an alarming rate—often in seconds, with tragic outcomes. In 2025, a total of 21 cases were documented.

You can prevent grain entrapment by never entering a grain bin while loading or unloading equipment is running, and by keeping grain in good condition to prevent crusting and bridging. Always use a buddy system with at least one dedicated observer stationed safely outside the bin who can maintain constant communication and call for emergency help and always equip entrants with a proper body harness attached to a secure lifeline that prevents them from sinking deep into the grain stream.