As spring approaches and lambing gets into full flow, farmers will be starting spring field-work with many facing more challenging circumstances brought about by recent floods or heavy rainfall.
Below we have included some useful information to remember when undertaking any vehicular repairs/maintenance.
Vehicle repair
During vehicle repair:
Wheel changing
Serious accidents, including fatalities, have been caused by unsafe practices during wheel/tyre changing and when inflating tyres. When using jacks to lift or support:
Tyre/wheel repair and replacement should only be tackled by competent staff. Take extra care with split-rim wheels as these present additional hazards. Don’t use ‘unrestricted’ airlines (without a gauge or pressure control device) or valve connectors that require the operator to hold them in place when inflating tyres.
Never underestimate the risks - whether the job is part of routine maintenance, fitting dual wheels or when dealing with a flat tyre.
This article was compiled with information from the HSE Agriculture e-Bulletin Issue 31.
For more information on Agricultural Health and Safety in the work place from the HSE, click here.
