Seasonal Guide · July 2025 · 5 min read
Summer brings elevated risks on the farm from extreme heat, long hours on equipment, and frequent pesticide applications. A proactive safety plan protects you, your family, and your employees during the most demanding months of the growing season.
Heat stroke is a medical emergency that can develop rapidly during strenuous outdoor work in high temperatures. Drink water every 15–20 minutes even if you are not thirsty, and take regular breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas. Train all workers to recognize symptoms of heat exhaustion including heavy sweating, weakness, nausea, and confusion.
Never bypass PTO shields, safety switches, or rollover protection structures. Summer rush creates pressure to skip safety steps, but entanglement and rollover remain the leading causes of farm fatalities. Shut off equipment completely before clearing plugged headers, and ensure all workers understand lockout-tagout procedures for maintenance tasks.
Always wear the personal protective equipment specified on the pesticide label, including chemical-resistant gloves, eye protection, and respiratory protection where required. High summer temperatures make PPE uncomfortable, but shortcuts with chemical handling can lead to acute poisoning or chronic health effects. Store pesticides in a locked, ventilated building away from feed, seed, and water sources.
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