OSHA Agriculture Standards (1928)
Farming is one of the most dangerous industries, but OSHA's rules for it are limited. Part 1928 covers only a handful of hazards, and many small farms are exempt from routine inspections. Other rules, including general industry standards, may still apply.
- Farmworkers
- Farm Employers
- Agriculture
What Part 1928 covers
- Roll-over protective structures (ROPS) and seat belts on certain tractors (1928.51). See Tractors & PTO.
- Protection for tractor power take-offs and other farm machinery guards (1928.57).
- Field sanitation: for crews of 11 or more working in the field, the employer must provide toilets, handwashing facilities and drinking water, and let workers use them (1928.110).
- Cotton dust, logging and welding are covered by cross-references to other parts.
Other rules that may apply
- Temporary labor camps: 1910.142 covers housing, water, sewage and sanitation.
- Hazard communication for chemicals. See Hazard Communication.
- Grain handling: 1910.272 applies to grain elevators and many bins. See Grain Handling.
- The General Duty Clause for recognized hazards without a specific rule, such as heat. See Heat Illness.
- EPA's Worker Protection Standard covers pesticide use. See Pesticides.
Small farms
For years, Congress has barred OSHA from using its funds to enforce its rules on small farms with 10 or fewer employees that have not had a temporary labor camp in the past 12 months. This does not remove the hazards, and states with their own plans, workers' compensation and other laws may still apply. Family members working on a family farm are generally not covered as employees.
Practical farm safety
- Use ROPS and seat belts on tractors, and never carry extra riders
- Keep guards on PTO shafts, augers and belts; shut off and wait before cleaning
- Never enter a grain bin without lockout, a lifeline and an observer
- Provide shade, water and rest in hot weather
- Train workers, including seasonal and young workers, in a language they understand
Standards & references
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