It’s Time For A Pre-Harvest Equipment Safety Check

Posted by Paul Rusnak|September 24, 2013

As the growing season comes to a close, Michigan State University (MSU) Extension researchers suggest a pre-harvest inspection of equipment prior to hitting the roads and orchards.

Bruce MacKellar of MSU Extension says checking the reflectiveness of slowing moving vehicle stickers and signs on the equipment is an easy and cost-effective way to improve over-the-road safety. Signs fade with exposure to weather and age. MacKellar suggests growers add reflecting tape and fluorescent sticks and reflective tape to trailers and other equipment to the widest point of the implement to illustrate the width of the equipment to passing motorists. Slow moving vehicle signs are also essential for equipment, indicating to drivers that a farm vehicle is ahead and will travel at speeds less than 25 MPH.

In a pre-harvest inspection, test all lighting on farm equipment. Check the “high” and “low” beam lights for proper operation. Checking lighting can help prevent blinding oncoming traffic by indicating the proper use of lights. Adding lighting and reflectors to the front of older equipment can help increase visibility and recognition for drivers.

For more information on pre-harvest equipment checks and how to conduct a wagon safety check, click here.