Combine fires can have a devastating effect on a farming business, so with the harvest season under way it is important that preventative measures are put in place to reduce the risk. The hot, dusty nature of harvesting, as well as moving machinery parts creates conditions where the risk of a fire is greatly increased. Apart from the obvious financial implications, combine fires can also put the lives of farm employees, families and local fire rescue crews at risk, particularly as fires have the potential to spread across standing crops.
By following our fire prevention advice, the risk and devastating impact of a combine fire can be greatly reduced.
Combine safety tips
- Regularly clean out dust and chaff from hot spots and check the machine over when you finish use for the day – in periods of heavier operation, more frequent cleaning may be needed.
- Use compressed air to blow out the chaff and dust, and a high-pressure washer to clean caked-on grease, oil and hydraulic fluids.
- Conduct an inspection each day before beginning combining. During this inspection, pay attention to hoses, fuel lines, belts, fittings, grommets and wiring. If any are leaking, cracked or otherwise damaged, replace the part. Stop to investigate hot running engines or bearings.
- Since vibration and friction can create heat and potential ignition sources, take steps to minimise these exposures. Follow manufacturers’ recommended maintenance and lubrication schedules.
- Switch off engines and ensure moving parts have stopped before clearing blockages or carrying out maintenance.
- Don’t bypass overload protection such as fuses and circuit breakers. Frequently inspect wiring and switches for any unsafe conditions in the combine’s electrical system and reduce sources for fire ignition. Consider a retro fit ISOBUS adaptor for older vehicles. Check battery terminals are tightened.
- If the cooling system is not properly maintained, the engine can run hot and increase the risk of ignition. Cleaning crop residue from this system will help ensure proper operation.
- Keep a fire extinguisher on the combine that is regularly maintained and consider fitting an automatic fire suppression system.
- Because fuel sources for combine fires can be crop residue, oil build up or an electrical spark, a multipurpose extinguisher is required to meet type A (crop residue), type B (fuel oil), and type C (electrical) fires. Clean any fuel spills before starting the engine.
- Have a plan in place in the event of fire, including a system for keeping in contact with lone workers and anyone working or living on farm.
- Keep mobile phones with you at all times – it’s no use to you if it’s left in a tractor or pickup cab.
- Ensure drivers are aware of the locations and heights of overhead power lines and check that you will safely pass under wires.
- Keep a bowser filled with water on hand and be prepared to create a fire break in the event of a crop fire.
- Use the what3words app to help the emergency services find your location easily.
- Remind staff to keep well-hydrated, take sufficient rest breaks and monitor fatigue, stress and mental health.
For further help and advice, please contact our Health and Safety team on 01981 590514.
