Bogged. Everyone’s been bogged – or almost – at least once in their driving history.
But for farmers, getting bogged is an occupational hazard (especially in times such as these when the rain only stops to allow the floods to go through).
However, there is bogged, and then there is bogged.
Meaning the bigger, and heavier, the machine you were using at the time, the tougher the job of getting it out – if you can find a machine big enough to do the job with both getting trapped.
Which is why more than 550 farmers and industry stakeholders last week rolled up for Birchip Cropping Group’s “Safely Recovering Machinery Field Day”.
BCG extension and communication manager Kelly Angel says having a good plan is vital.
Kelly says it is such a simple, but effective message – reminding participants the best way to get out of a bog is not to get bogged.
She also says using chains is far from recommended as they have a high risk to safety with lots of moving parts.
“There were several key messages we wanted people to take home with them,” Kelly says.
1. Understand the ratings of straps and shackles, e.g. the working load limit (WLL) and break-strength and how to interpret these when using them for recovery.
2. Communicate to ensure all staff are trained in how to avoid getting bogged and how to use recovery equipment safely.
3. Stop and think: Before entering a paddock, calculate the risk of becoming bogged. If you do become bogged, stop. Don’t try and drive yourself out of it. Take a moment and think about how to recover the vehicle safely. Does the machine need to be recovered right away? Taking time to think before recovering machinery is often the safest option.
4. Unload, as removing unnecessary weight from bogged machinery will make it easier and safer to recover.
5. Dig if it is safe to do as this can help relieve pressure on machinery and aid in recovery.
6. Storage means ensuring recovery equipment is looked after, out of weather and stored clean.
“We thank everyone who attended the event and to our partners for working with us to bring such a relevant need-driven event together so quickly,” Kelly added.
“Thanks to VFF Making Farms Safer, WorkSafe, Warakirri Cropping, the National Centre for Farmer Health, O’Connor’s (Case IH), Emmetts (John Deere), Belle-Vue Machinery (New Holland), Horsham Heavy Towing, Blake Snake Recovery Strops and farmer Ross Johns, who hosted us.”
