Through generations, the family has been the largest workhorse in the business, making it even more important we work safely and mindfully.
As children start coming home from school and young workers start their summer jobs, it is important to make sure the farm is safe for children. Take these tips into consideration when working with your family members or other children around the farm.
- Ensure your children, and any young person entering the facility, know the hazards of the barn. Though young children may not understand why something is dangerous, it is important they know where the “safe zones” are.
- Make sure there is reflective clothing for children to wear around the farm. As they may be smaller in stature, it is important children are visible when around the farm and heavy equipment such as tractors.
- Though there is no age restriction on driving farm vehicles, it is imperative your child is a competent driver and is a licensed driver before becoming road-bound.
- If you are having visiting groups such as 4-H or a summer camp come to your farm, ensure the leaders and chaperones understand and respect the “house rules.”
- Make sure open liquid manure areas are fenced off and the entrance locked.
- Ensure all ladders to silos and grain bins are not reachable to small children. All ladders should be at least 5 feet off the ground.
- Create a “play area” where children know they will be out of danger’s way and still accessible to their guardian.
- There should be no access to any enclosed or confined spaces.
- Though it may be viewed as good bonding time, avoid bringing passengers when working with the tractor and other farm equipment. It is important to have a “No Extra Rider” rule.
It’s great young family members want to be a part of and grow up helping on the farm. Give them set chores so they know what they can do in and around the farm.
When making these chores or tasks, make sure your child is supervised, in a safe place, is trained, wears the proper personal protective equipment and does not operate heavy machinery.
There are a lot of ways to have your young family involved in the farm. When getting your kids involved, it is imperative to think of their safety. By working with your family, not only are you creating a great learning environment for the family but hopefully a safe environment as well. 
PHOTO: Kid safety on the farm. Staff photo illustration.
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Danielle Pasztor
- Farm Safety Specialist and HR Consultant
- PeopleManagement Group Inc.
- Email Danielle Pasztor
