Agricultural grain processing involves using the right equipment for dry and wet milling, steaming, boiling, frying, flaking, roasting, fermentation, sprouting, and brewing. It’s crucial to implement safety measures when using conveyors, bucket elevators, and other agricultural grain processing equipment. 

When using bulk dry goods equipment, there are no shortages of rules. Worker training and compliance are vital to prevent injuries and accidents. Aside from these things, keep in mind the safety tips below for your reference.  

1. Continuous Training 

Regular training is imperative because of changes in health and safety laws. With training, you’ll learn the latest procedures and policies, such as if a new agricultural grain processing equipment will be used. Always remember this tip to keep everyone safe onsite. Any untrained worker should never be allowed to operate a conveyor belt.

2. Always Be Prepared 

Every operator should know the best course of action during emergency. Keep the following things in mind when operating an agricultural grain processing equipment:

• Know The Conveyor: There are different types of conveyors that come with potential hazards and operate on the same principles. Before using the conveyor, make sure you know how it works, as well as its features and main hazards. Read the manual for safe use.

• Locate Switches: Before you switch the conveyor on, locate the switches so you’ll know how to stop it when emergency arises. Test it to ensure its working. Always make sure grab wires or emergency stop buttons are clear of obstructions.  

• Secure The Area: Keep the area around the conveyor clear of tripping hazards, unnecessary objects, and debris. Guards or support should be installed in areas where conveyors pass through, such as aisles, walkways, and work areas. Don’t remove guards when operating the conveyor, unless if it’s for maintenance.

3.  Wear Personal Protective Equipment

Wear the right PPE for the grain processing task and work area, such as safety shoes, hard hat, ear protector, eye protector or safety glasses, and gloves. Keep jewelry and loose clothing away from the conveyor belt, and tie and tuck your long hair at the back.

4. Always Be Attentive 

Even if you’re used to operating an agricultural grain processing equipment, complete focus is still a must to avoid accidents. Check these safety tips when operating a conveyor:

• Conduct a comprehensive risk assessment and regular visual inspection. 
• Before you start the equipment, make sure you see the conveyor when operating the controls.
• An audible warning signal must be used at all times.
• Listen out for odd noises indicative of a jam or failing equipment. If you hear or see any unusual occurrence, stop the equipment and call your service team.

5. Avoid Overloading

Be extra careful when loading materials onto the conveyor belt. Overloading may lead to spilling of grains off the sides. Buildup can also occur, often causing breakdowns and jams. Don’t load materials on a stopped conveyor and avoid overloading it while moving.

6. Identify The Dangerous Points

These hazardous or nip points have two or more rolling machine parts of a conveyor moving toward each other. Nip point hazards can occur in the rollers, drive drums, and idlers. Tools, clothes, fingers, or limbs can be drawn in these areas, especially when operating a high-speed conveyor. 

The nip pinch also refers to the rolling part where it meets a stationary part that increases accident risk. Guards of supports are usually installed to access these nip points. But, you should still locate them.

7.  Maintain Equipment Cleanliness And Regular Maintenance

Ensure a safe working environment by keeping the agricultural grain processing equipment always clean and in good condition. Debris must be removed to avoid buildup in the conveyor’s tail and loading section. Also, inspect the boxed-in area underneath the equipment on a weekly basis.

Keeping your agricultural grain processing equipment clean is also one way to preserve its life and improve its performance. Perform daily or weekly equipment maintenance checks to keep the conveyor in good working order. Refer to the operation manual for the checklist to ensure you won’t miss anything. Check the electrical components, frame and belt, the motor and gearbox, and safety guards of the grain processing equipment.

Conclusion

Follow the above tips when operating any agricultural grain processing equipment. Always be prepared by getting proper training and knowing how the equipment works, its features, and potential safety hazards. Determine the standard operating procedures if emergency arises to avoid or reduce injury and accident. Also, it’s essential to keep the agricultural grain processing equipment, such as the conveyor, in good condition with regular checks and maintaining cleanliness.