Guides & Toolkits

42 150-008-01-IADO © 2014, Workplace Safety & Prevention Services (WSPS) 1 877 494 WSPS (9777) | 905 614 1400 | www.wsps.ca tailgate talks – resPiratory Hazards in agricUltUre Fungi and dust from grain and animal confinement can be eliminated by using pellet feed rather than dusty chopped feed, or by substituting silage for hay. When cleaning use a wet process. Use a fork to spread out open bales rather than doing it manually. In the fields, you can lower the speed of equipment to reduce the release of fine particles. Organize equipment and work practices so that any prevailing wind can carry the dust away from your face. Indoor dust minimizing practices include pressure washing with cold water, water with additives and sprinkling with agents such as vegetable oil. Animal feeding should be done just before leaving a room to limit worker exposure. Fast dumping of large amounts of material creates greater amounts of dust. Gases A variety of potentially toxic gases are produced during many routine agricultural operations. These gases are commonly produced in areas such as silos and manure pits. Nitrogen oxides – (mainly in silos) Do not enter a silo until 2-3 weeks after filling, post warning signs, and run the blowers for at least 30 minutes before entering a filled silo. Workers entering a silo should wear an air supplied full face respirator and follow confined space entry procedures. Carbon monoxide – ensure that equipment such as gas heaters, pressure washers and vehicles are functioning properly. When working indoors ensure the building is well ventilated, especially where internal combustion engines may be operating. Ammonia – Ammonia concentration can be reduced in poultry barns by the use of peat for litter. Keep bedding dry to reduce ammonia levels. To reduce ammonia levels in livestock buildings, prevent air leakage through manure channels. Exhaust as much air as possible through the manure channels. Use tight fitting hatches, water traps or evacuation fans to eliminate air leakage. Do not enter manure pits during agitation. Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S) – is considered the most dangerous by-product of manure decomposition. H2S is heavier than air so settles in lower areas and can remain in high concentrations even after ventilation. It wsps.ca

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