At Valley View Agri-Systems, we take grain safety seriously. With Grain Bin Safety Week upon us, it’s the perfect time to reinforce best practices that can prevent life-threatening accidents. Grain bins are an essential part of farming operations, but they also present significant dangers. This week serves as a reminder to prioritize safety and strive for zero entry whenever possible.
The Goal: Zero Entry
The safest way to avoid grain bin accidents is to stay out of the bin entirely. Modern advancements, such as improved grain management techniques and automated equipment, help minimize the need for entry. However, when entry is unavoidable, following strict safety protocols is essential.
Why Staying Out of Grain Bins Matters
Grain bin accidents can happen in seconds. Flowing grain can act like quicksand, trapping a person and leading to suffocation. Grain collapses, bridging, and dangerous air quality are additional hazards that make entering a bin a life-threatening decision. By emphasizing zero entry, farmers and workers can significantly reduce the risk of injury or death.
Essential Safety Measures for Grain Bin Entry
If entering a grain bin is absolutely necessary, follow these essential safety guidelines:
- Lock Out and Tag Out – Ensure all grain-handling equipment is turned off and properly locked out to prevent accidental startup.
- Use a Safety Harness and Lifeline – Anyone entering the bin should wear a full-body harness attached to a lifeline that is secured outside the bin.
- Work in Teams – Never enter a grain bin alone. Have a trained observer outside the bin ready to assist in case of an emergency.
- Test Air Quality – Check for dangerous gases and ensure there is sufficient oxygen before entering.
- Use Protective Equipment – Dust masks, respirators, and other protective gear can help mitigate risks from airborne contaminants.
- Communicate Clearly – Keep open communication between the person inside the bin and those outside at all times.
Nominate Your Fire Department for Grain Rescue Equipment 
Even with the best safety practices, accidents can still occur. That’s why it’s crucial for local fire departments to be prepared with the right tools and training. Through Nationwide’s Grain Bin Safety Week program, you can nominate your local fire department to receive a grain rescue tube and hands-on training from the National Education Center for Agricultural Safety (NECAS). These life-saving tools can make all the difference in an emergency situation.
Nominate your local fire department today and help make your community safer. Visit Nationwide’s Grain Bin Safety Week page for more information.
Let’s work together to make grain bin safety a priority—because no bushel of grain is worth a life.