What are some tractor tips for PTO safety?
- Read the manufacturer’s instructions
- Never go near a moving PTO
- Make sure the PTO has proper shields
- Wear the right clothing
- Only allow trained persons on the tractor
Power-takeoff (PTO) is the component that transfers the power from the engine of the tractor to an implement that doesn’t have an engine. Without it, you won’t be able to use the tractor’s power to use attachments such as harvesters. Nowadays, almost all tractors have PTO. Because of this, every tractor operator must know tractor tips for PTO safety, to minimize risks and prevent accidents in the workplace.
Tractors with PTO have been available in the market for a long time. Back then, PTOs connected the implement directly to the transmission of the tractor. This resulted in more damage to the transmission. As technology advanced, PTOs nowadays are designed not just to protect the transmission but also to provide safety features. But even with this, it’s important to take safety precautions to minimize the risks.
If you’re interested in PTO safety, keep on reading to learn more.
Read The Manufacturer’s Instructions
The first thing you need to know is to learn how to properly use the PTO. You can do this by checking the manufacturer’s manual for tips on how to hook the implement to the PTO. Before using any PTO-driven equipment, make sure to consult the manual first. Other than that, review the safety labels attached to the equipment, too.
Never Go Near A Moving PTO
A PTO shaft rotates very fast, so it is dangerous to go near it while it is still rotating. A number of PTO accidents happen when a person gets too close to a moving shaft. To prevent this, make sure to not step over a rotating PTO shaft.
To avoid injury, keep in mind to disengage the PTO, stop the engine, and wait until the rotating components have come to a stop before doing anything PTO-related — such as connecting, disconnecting, adjusting, or cleaning the PTO-driven equipment. Other than that, make sure to keep the PTO shaft cover in place all the time. Place the PTO shaft cap if you don’t need to use the shaft.
When parking the tractor, it’s also important to disengage the PTO first for safety. Then you can lower the implement to the ground, put the control levers in a neutral position, set the parking brake, and stop the engine.
Make Sure The PTO Has Proper Shields
The first line of defense against a PTO entanglement is the shields, so make sure that all of them are in good condition. A PTO master shield will cover the tractor PTO stub. This protects you from the stub and front joint of the drive shaft. Make sure that the master shield is secured properly prior to operating the tractor and the PTO-powered machinery. If it’s damaged, have it replaced first.
Another protective component is the PTO driveline shield. This shield encloses the shaft and rotates with it. It stops spinning when it is touched. To check the shield, spin it and make sure that it can rotate properly. You will need to replace it if it can’t rotate properly or has signs of damage.
Don’t be complacent and think that a shield is enough to prevent an accident. That’s why it’s important to check their condition regularly, as shields may be missing, damaged, or not placed properly.
Wear The Right Clothing
A PTO driveline is the component of the implement drive shaft that is connected to the tractor. When the driveline is unguarded, the shaft can be a hazard. Clothing and other objects can catch and wrap around the driveline, causing an accident. When this happens, the driveline can pull you toward the shaft.
When operating the tractor and PTO-powered equipment, it’s important to wear the right clothing to prevent accidents with the PTO. Wear tight-fitting clothing instead of loose garments, which can become entangled with the PTO. Ensure that shoelaces are tied securely. Replace any frayed clothing, especially your gloves. Aside from that, put up or tie back long hair and secure it under a hat.
Only Allow Trained Persons On The Tractor
Make sure that only trained persons are allowed to operate the tractor and its attachments. Those who have learned to use a tractor and have understood the manufacturer’s manual will know the safety precautions to take when using the equipment. It’s recommended to make work areas with PTO equipment off limits to young children.
Remind anyone that uses the tractor and its attachments to immediately report problems with the PTO. The tractor must not be operated until these issues are resolved.
Key Takeaway
A power take-off is an important device that allows you to use implements that don’t have their own engine. But you need to learn how to properly use the PTO if you want to safely operate the implement on your farm.
Follow these tractor tips for PTO safety, so you can reduce the risk of accidents on your farm. If you’re interested in purchasing a tractor, implements, or other farm equipment in the Philippines, you can contact us here at Ford Tractor. We will help you find the right product that will help improve productivity on your farm.
