Making repairs while equipment is operating, stepping over or onto revolving shafts, wearing loose or frayed clothing are actions that set the stage for carnage. Clear safety rules must be established for everyone who works with farm machinery. Even the most experienced operator will benefit by reviewing the PTO safety information summarized in this fact sheet. Never operate a tractor with a missing or damaged master shield. Manufacturers have made great strides in the design of these tubular shields, most of which are now made of durable plastic.
Integral shields rotate on bearings, independently of the power shaft.
They revolve with the shaft while it is turning, but the shield will stop spinning if it is contacted. These shields must be kept in place and maintained in good condition to provide protection against the grabbing action of shafts and universal joints. The power shaft must also be shielded at the point of attachment of the driven machine. Both the universal joint and the machine's stub shaft must be well covered. If this shielding is missing or damaged, or if you feel it doesn't provide adequate protection, talk to your dealer about a replacement.