Power Takeoff (PTO)
A power takeoff (PTO) is a driveshaft, usually on a tractor or truck that uses the vehicle’s engine to power an attachment or separate machine such as an auger or mower. PTO’s are designed to be easily connected and disconnected.
However, a PTO driveshaft is a rapidly spinning mechanism that can injure or even kill a worker who gets caught. For that reason, proper guarding of a PTO shaft is essential and required by law.
Rules
Rules for Specific Activities or Workplaces
- Guarding Power Transmission Machinery, Agriculture (WAC 296-307 Part P)
- Vehicles and Farm Field Equipment, Agriculture (WAC 296-307 Part E)
Training Materials
Videos
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Other Resources
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"Links" to other information sources are provided as a courtesy, but we cannot vouch for or take responsibility for information contained beyond files administered by the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries. Links from this page do not represent or imply the endorsement of commercial products by the State of Washington, Labor and Industries, or by departmental staff. For more information, read L&I's Intended Usage policy.
Employee Killed when Clothing Caught on Power Take-Off Shaft (L&I Fatality Bulletin)- Farm Tractor Hazards (Fatal Facts from L&I's SHARP program)
- Injury Fact Sheet, Agriculture
- Orchard Laborer Caught in Tractor-Mounted Post Hole Digger (SHARP FACE Fatality Report)
- OSHA requirement for guarding power take-off (PTO) shafts on agricultural equipment.
- Safe Operating Procedures for Farm Tractors & PTO's
- Safety and Health Topics: Agricultural Operations (From OSHA)
Related Topics
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