SEPTEMBER 2017

Is your farm ready in the event of an emergency, such as a natural disaster, work related injury, or infectious disease outbreak? A little time planning up front can help you respond quickly and effectively when needed. Also, be sure to have a training program for new employees, and go over your plan annually. A little time can save a life! Be proactive and review your emergency preparedness plan today.

A little time can save a life! Be proactive and review your emergency preparedness plan today.

SAFETY CHECKLIST

The checklist below lists a few ways you can be prepared in case of a farm emergency:

• Are emergency numbers, including name and address of nearest medical facility are posted where everyone can see them?
• Are the directions to your farm posted by the phone or in a central location?
• Is there at least one person trained in First Aid and CPR? Does this person speak the same language as your workers? Do all employees know who this is?
• Are there designated safe places to go during a flood, tornado, thunderstorm or fire?
• Do all workers have a way to contact other workers in other areas of the farm site if there is an emergency? (charged cell phones, two-way radios)
• Are the fire extinguishers easy to retrieve?  Have they been checked recently to ensure they are full and up-to-date?
• Are all exits clear of obstacles and clearly marked?
• Do you have a training program for all new employees?
• Do you go over your training program with all family members and employees yearly?

You and/or your employee(s) can download and print a pdf checklist to complete safety checks on your farm. Keep the completed forms for follow-up, future reference and inspections.

Disclaimer: The facts and information listed above are suggestions for your safety, but are in no way a comprehensive and exhaustive list of all actions needed to ensure your safety.