Stand Up 4 Grain Safety Week

DES MOINES, Iowa — This year’s Stand Up 4 Grain Safety Week was observed March 24-28. The national initiative aims to prevent injuries and save lives.

“This week is about raising awareness, sharing knowledge and reinforcing our commitment to safety,” said Adam Lathrop, Iowa OSHA division administrator.

“At the end of the day, nothing is more important than making sure every worker goes home safe. Iowa OSHA plays a vital role in protecting employees across the state, especially in high-risk industries like agriculture and grain handling.

“Our goal is not just compliance, but creating a culture where safety is second nature. We all know the hazards involved in grain handling, but injuries are largely preventable.”

OSHA’s Alliance Program, in collaboration with state workplace safety officials and industry leaders, helped reduce fatal grain entrapments by 25.7% from 2022 to 2023.

Despite those efforts, half of reported grain entanglements in 2024 were fatal.

It only takes five seconds to get trapped at knee level. Complete engulfment can happen in 30 to 45 seconds.

Five simple steps to grain bin safety:

1. Use a permit or checklist.

2. Always lock out, tag out.

3. Check atmosphere.

4. Use a lifeline.

5. Never go alone.

Pro tip: Guard sump holes and sweep augers to prevent entanglement.

Learn more at standup4grainsafety.org.