The grain auger is one of the most dangerous pieces of equipment used on today's farms. Before a grain auger is moved, the work area must be carefully assessed for overhead powerlines. Contact with a powerline can result in instantaneous death or very serious injuries.
Augers weigh several hundred pounds and are raised and lowered mechanically.
The hoisting mechanism must be checked regularly to assure all clamps, locking pins and other fasteners are securely in place. In some cases, cable clamps have unexpectedly released winch cables causing the augers to collapse crushing the unsuspecting person to death . Do not stand or permit anyone else to stand under a grian auger. Do not move a grain auger that is operating Only move a grain auger enough to clear the bin before lowering or raising it. Look-up' for powerlines before moving the grain auger.