October 2024

Each farm operation is unique in their farm buildings and shops. These structures are crucial to farm operation, but they may be risky places, especially for slips, trips, and falls.

For example, from 2021 to 2022, nearly 30% of all farm injuries that needed time off to heal were caused by falls. The checklist below lists some of the most common safety hazards to routinely check for along with new equipment and practices to keep your employees and families safe.

Have you taken the proper steps to ensure the safety of the buildings and shops on your farm?

SAFETY CHECKLIST

The checklist below lists a few common hazards you can look for and fix to keep your workers and family safe.

• Are walkways and work areas kept clear of trash, tools, loose hay, cords, and water lines to prevent trips and slips?
• Are wood floors free of rotten or broken boards, splinters, nails, and other flaws creating uneven walking surfaces?
• Are concrete floors free from badly broken sections, raised areas, slippery spots, or other defects?
• Are walkways and work areas well-lit?
• Are wet surfaces quickly dried or have slip resistant mats?
• Is footwear appropriate, like steel-toed and slip resistant?
• Are stairs, ramps, and loading docks kept in good shape with handrails?
• Are all workers trained to use 3 points of contact when climbing ladders and equipment?
• Are ladders sturdy and in good shape with no loose or missing parts?
• Are low ceilings, doors, and beams marked with visible warning signs or tape that can be seen by employees with visible impairments?
• Are buildings and equipment adapted to all regardless of their age, size, or ability or disability?

You and/or your employee(s) can use this form to complete safety checks on your farm. Add any additional safety checks you think are important when inspecting your farm. Keep the completed forms for follow-up, future reference, and inspections.