Other Farm-related Hazards
Farms, and the work associated with the farms, typically can be quite dangerous due to the nature of the work, machinery and equipment being used, and the facilities themselves. Links to other webpages (orange text) and general applications are provided below for your information and to provide guidance when determining necessary training and work practices.
Above Ground Storage Tanks
Information regarding above ground fuel storage tanks.
All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) Safety
Information for personnel who operate ATVs and UTVs regarding proper training, safe operation, and requirements for equipment/implements.
Animals
Persons who work with or around animals can suffer injuries from being bitten, kicked or crushed, can be exposed to infectious diseases, have a risk of developing animal related allergies, and can be exposed to noise that can affect ones hearing. For more information, please see the Occupational Safety and Health Program for Animal Handlers. All employees who work with animals should participate in the Occupational Health Assurance Program. For information on zoonotic diseases associated with animals, see the Appendix C of the Infection Control Program, or for specific information see the following fact sheets for various animals: Swine, Cattle, Sheep and Goats, or Horses. For guidance on suspect rabies exposure incidents and response protocols, see the Rabies Fact Sheet.
Confined Spaces
Requirements for entry into silos, feed bins, grain bins, manure pits, etc. have confined spaces.
Electrical Hazards
Requirements for electrical hazards, such as outdated electrical systems in facilities, use of temporary wiring, and overhead power line hazards.
Environmental Leaks/Runoff
Oils and fuels, for example, can contaminate the soil in the event of leaks.
- Move/store equipment indoors and under a covered area.
- Use drip pans, funnels, and absorbent materials.
- Maintain spill cleanup supplies near any designated maintenance areas.
- Avoid storing materials near waterways or on a slope to prevent runoff from rainfall events.
- Ensure that all containers are properly labeled.
- Store any used fluids in a recycling drum or water-tight container to be disposed of by Environmental Health & Safety.
Excavation Hazards
Requirements for excavation work, where the depth of the excavation is greater than 4 feet deep.
Fall hazards
Requirements for personnel who are exposed to fall hazard situations greater than 4 feet above the next lower level.
Hazard Communication Program
Requirements for the proper management of chemicals.
Hearing Conservation Program
Information regarding the Hearing Conservation Program or voluntary use of hearing protection devices.
Ladder Safety
Information for safe use of step ladders and extension ladders.
Lockout/Tagout
Requirements for proper servicing/maintenance of machinery or systems involving hazardous energy sources, such as electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, gravity, etc.
Machine Shop Safety Program
Information on wood- and/or metal-working working machinery.
Personal Protective Equipment Program
Information on the selection, use, and care of personal protective equipment.
Pesticides
Virginia Tech Pesticide Programs (VTPP) provide pesticide safety information, training, and educational resources to pesticide applicators, Extension agents, and the public. In addition, the Office of Pesticide Programs under the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) provides certification and registration services. Some proper use and handling tips include:
- Never apply chemicals before a predicted rainfall event, during periods of high wind speeds, or within close proximity to surface water.
- Ensure all containers are water-tight after each individual use.
- Provide cleanup supplies near areas of use to facilitate immediate cleanup, if necessary.
- Ensure all containers are labeled properly.
- Always be sure to use, store, and dispose of pesticides/herbicides/fertilizers according to the manufacturer's specifications.
Powered Industrial Trucks
Requirements for personnel who operate forklifts, or tractors/bobcats with fork extensions.
Vehicle Recovery
Basic guidelines and resources for recovering stuck vehicles.
Waste Management
Visit EHS' Hazardous Waste and Removal site. Charts for helping manage these wastes may be found at the links below: