Asphyxiation Hazards in Silos, Grain Bins and Manure Pits
 
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Nationwide, 49 workers died in agricultural manure pits, silos and grain bins due to exposure to harmful substances or environments (1995-2003).

This page covers only breathing hazards associated with silos, grain bins and manure pits. Such installations pose many other hazards including fire, explosion, engulfment, falls from heights, and equipment entanglement. The best way to be sure your employees can safely work in or around silos, grain bins and manure pits is to ask for help from an expert.

How many questions can your workers answer correctly?

True or False
1. I could die from lack of oxygen while working in silo or manure pit. T or F
2. I can hold my breath long enough to get a tool from inside a silo. T or F
3. Inside a silo I can smell bad air and leave before I'm in danger. T or F
4. If I turn on the blower, I'll be safe from all silo hazards. T or F
5. I can safely walk on top of flowing grain in a grain bin. T or F
6. I can hold my breath to rescue someone from a manure pit. T or F

Answer key: 1 T, 2 F, 3 F, 4 F, 5 F, 6 F

Resources

The publications listed here are for informational purposes only. You must still comply with all WISHA Regulations and Policies related to Agriculture.

Asphyxiation Hazards
Grain Bin Hazards
General Resources

Regulation & Policy

Ask an Expert

You can do any of the following:

The resources on this page will provide useful information but are not a substitute for asking an expert.


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