In the first fatality, a man was run over and killed by a reversing tractor that was inadvertently activated and found to be in poor condition.

The second fatality involved a worker who died after being exposed to airborne contaminants while cleaning grain dust from the confined space of a silo. The man had not been provided with adequate respiratory protection and later succumbed to respiratory failure due to a pre-existing medical condition.

Understanding the hazards

Inadvertent machinery activation

Farm machinery such as tractors, augers, conveyors and harvesters can cause severe injury or death if not used correctly or maintained in accordance with the manufacturer’s requirements. One of the main contributors to farm incidents is equipment being activated while being cleaned, adjusted, or repaired. These incidents often occur when:

• plant/equipment is not used correctly
• plant/equipment is not maintained
• lockout/tagout procedures are not followed
• controls are left energised
• multiple workers are unaware of each other’s actions and presence.

Inadequate respiratory protection

Dust from grain, soil, and animal waste can contain mould spores, bacteria, and fine particulates that may not be visible or detectable by odour and can pose serious health risks. Without proper PPE, exposure can lead to:

• acute respiratory distress
• chronic lung disease
• fatal outcomes, especially in enclosed or poorly ventilated areas.

How to prevent these incidents

Machinery safety

• ensure the plant/equipment is maintained
• establish and enforce exclusion zones to keep other workers clear of operating machinery
• ensure operators are aware of how to use the plant/equipment safely
• always isolate and lock out machinery before maintenance
• use tagout systems to alert others that equipment is being serviced
• train all workers in safe shutdown procedures
• never bypass guards or safety interlocks.

Respiratory protection

• conduct risk assessments for dust exposure
• ensure ventilation in enclosed spaces
• use dust suppression techniques
• provide P2 or higher-grade respirators for dusty tasks
• train workers on PPE use, maintenance, and limitations.

Appropriate PPE

• respirators (P2 or P3): for grain dust, mould, and fine particulates
• eye protection: to prevent irritation from airborne particles
• coveralls and gloves: to reduce skin exposure
• hearing protection: when working near loud machinery.

For more information and safety resources, visit the Agriculture section of the SafeWork SA website.