Recent statistics show a majority of grain bin accidents happen on family farms. (Photo Courtesy of Flickr/DewayneNeely)
By Andy Dahn
BLOOMINGTON – The state of Illinois ranks second nationally in grain bin accidents and fatalities, and the month of March is one of the busiest times of year for grain to be transported out of bins.
Illinois Department of Labor Director Hugo Chaviano said anyone working with grain bins must be prepared.
“You should be aware of what kind of safety precautions you should be taking in a grain bin,” Chaviano said. “That’s an easy way to prevent any accidents.”
Chaviano said a majority of grain bin accidents are happening on family farms.
“It’s not unusual for members of the family, maybe even children, to have access to a bin,” said Chaviano. “Many are in a setting where they can easily get into those bins.”
A majority of grain bin accidents result in fatalities, Chaviano added. More safety tips and information can be found on the Department of Labor’s website, labor.illinois.gov.
Andy Dahn can be reached at andy.dahn@cumulus.com.
