The 66-year-old, a self-employed farmer at Newbigging Walls Farm, died after his boot lace became entangled with a sweep auger in a grain silo.
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) have reminded farmers to use the safe stop procedure when working with any agricultural machinery:
- Put the handbrake on.
- Make sure the controls are in neutral equipment made safe).
- Stop the engine (or turn off the power).
- Remove the key (or lock-off the power supply).
This is particularly important to remember when carrying out maintenance or repairs when you may be working with gguards removed or in closer proximity to the moving parts.
Use a padlock to prevent the power being turned on accidentally or remove the ignition key and keep the key with you until the work is complete.
Do not enter grain silos with the auger running – use the safe stop procedure. Sweep augers move slowly but have been responsible for several accidents – usually fatal – where the individual has become entangled by a boot lace or clothing.
Do not enter grain silos to clear blockages of any kind unless the power is isolated and there is no chance of bridging in the grain – drowning in grain silos can occur when a person sinks into the grain as the silo empties. Also consider lack of oxygen in the silo, particularly if the grain could be damp/contaminated or if it is a sealed silo.
HSE inspector Hazel Dobb said: “The tragic death of Mr Sharp has once again brought home the dangers involved in the farming industry, particularly when working with agricultural machinery.
HSE publication “Safe Working with Agricultural Machinery” is available for free via the HSE website www.hse.gov.uk