Nebraska Corn: Safety First, Avoid the Worst

As harvest season approaches, the Nebraska Corn Board (NCB) and Nebraska Corn Growers Association (NeCGA) are reminding farmers, rural communities and motorists to prioritize safety during National Farm Safety and Health Week, September 21-27. This year’s theme, “Safety First, Avoid the Worst,” highlights the importance of taking proactive steps to prevent accidents during one of the busiest and most dangerous times of the year in agriculture.

Agriculture remains the backbone of Nebraska’s economy, with one in four jobs tied to the industry. But farming continues to rank among the most hazardous occupations in the United States. Fatigue, stress, heavy equipment and unpredictable conditions all contribute to the risks faced by farmers and rural residents alike.

“Harvest is a season that brings families together across generations, but it also requires us to be more vigilant than ever,” said Brandon Hunnicutt, chairman of NCB. “Taking a few extra moments for safety, whether in the field, on rural roads or around equipment, can save lives and help us avoid the worst.”

Nebraska Corn encourages both farmers and the public to keep these safety reminders top of mind this fall and beyond:

Equipment and Roadway Safety

• Make sure equipment is properly maintained before heading to the field.
• When approaching harvest equipment, do so from the front to ensure the operator sees you.
• Motorists should slow down and use caution when sharing the road with farm machinery, which often travels well below highway speeds.

Health and Wellness

• Fatigue and stress can impair decision-making, schedule breaks and get adequate rest.
• Pay attention to mental health needs, and don’t hesitate to reach out for support when stress builds during harvest.

Generational Safety

• Teach youth safe habits early, including the importance of staying away from running equipment.
• Assign age-appropriate tasks and ensure children are supervised around harvest activity.

Confined Spaces and Grain Bin Safety

• Never enter a grain bin while equipment is running.
• Always have a harness and lifeline and never work in a bin alone.
• Keep children away from grain storage areas.

ATV/UTV Use

• Always wear helmets and seatbelts where applicable.
• Avoid carrying extra passengers unless the vehicle is designed for them.
• Operate off-road vehicles only in appropriate areas, not on public highways.

Nebraska Corn also reminds those traveling through rural areas to be patient during harvest traffic and be aware of Nebraska’s updated move-over law. The updated measure requires drivers to slow down and move over for stopped vehicles and vulnerable road users which now includes agricultural vehicles and equipment. Slowing down and staying alert can prevent accidents and help avoid the worst.