JUNE 2013
Prior to loading
– farmer or farm manager Inspect intended loading /parking area beside the barn
for trailer and/or loader. Ensure area is level and free of
ice and snow accumulation that could cause trailer or
loader to slant.
Inspect mechanical loader
– designated operator,
refer to page 16
Refer to Appendix E for a sample
circle checklist.
Inspect loader carefully before use to ensure that:
- all guarding is in place over moving belts, shafts, etc.;
- there are no hydraulic fl uid leaks from hoses, fi ttings,
control box, etc;.
- all safety rail /chains to keep workers from falling off
loader platforms are in place; and,
- the exhaust is directed away from personnel loading
turkeys (PTO tractor/self contained motor).
Setting loader
– designated operator
Set loader in barn doorway.
Ensure loader is level and properly blocked so it cannot
tip during loading.
Place turkey corral in barn.
Position truck and trailer
Drive truck into position beside loader.
Loading turkeys Personnel climb onto turkey loader platform and secure
safety chain or rail.
Personnel activate conveyor belts.
A competent loader controls the operation of the lift
hydraulics and conveyor.
Turkey herders gather small groups and herd them into
gathering fences where they mount conveyor belts.
Loaders catch turkeys at the top of the conveyor and
guide them into liner compartment. When appropriate
number of turkeys has been loaded into a compartment,
the bin door is closed.
A competent loader activates hydraulics to raise or lower
loader to line up with next bin level.
STEP ACTION
27
