SafeWork SA Inspectors have recently responded to two separate incidents in the month of September 2022 involving workers who were struck in the head/face by the spring loaded mechanism (arm) that raises and lowers the wheels on portable field bins. This resulted in serious facial lacerations and broken teeth.

When the workers attempted to raise the wheels on the bins, the handles, which are under spring tension (stored energy) sprung back with high force striking both worker in the head/face.

As the Grain Season for farming approaches, Safework SA reminds PCBU’s to be aware of the dangers relating to these spring loaded field bin handles and other hazards associated with plant and equipment on farms.

Using lever handles

The raising and lowering mechanism is designed to utilise operator strength and may have an adjustable tensioned spring to provide additional assistance.

During the bin raising stage, as the lever is turned, it will reach a point where the weight of the bin (and spring force – if fitted) will maintain the bin in the lifted position.

The operator must position themselves out of the way of the detachable lever in case it releases or kicks back.

A locking pin must be installed into the bin axle for transportation. While this is a required action, it may place the operator directly in line with the tensioned detachable lever, should the operator lose control of the detachable lever and/or the bin moves.

Possible causes of incidents

Incidents may occur if:

• a field bin with a spring assisted mechanism to lower or raise the bin is incorrectly handled
• a worker is positioned directly in line with the tensioned detachable lever used to raise the field bin for transportation
• the lever handle is not firmly secured and/or controlled to prevent movement.

Safety solutions

To reduce the risks of incidents and injuries occurring:

• only raise or lower the field bin when empty
• ensure the lever is firmly secured to the bin lifting mechanism or removed prior to installing the locking pin
• never hold the lever down by standing on it
• follow the manufacturer’s recommendations and guidelines regarding safe use
• develop and implement safe lifting/lowering procedures (including for wheel maintenance), in consultation with workers
• consider using alternative methods of raising the bins, such as the use of winches or hydraulic lifts
• contact the manufacturer and enquire if a suitable modification kit is available and if so, have it fitted by a competent person.

SafeWork SA reminds business owners to ensure the wheel mechanism, and other components on portable field bins, are maintained in accordance with the manufacturers requirements.  Owners of portable field bins need to ensure that workers are trained in the safe operation of the field bins wheel mechanism and that a safe system of work has been implemented to minimise the risk of injury.