It is always good business sense to maintain the proper focus on safety and not risk limb or life to save a few minutes. When you are tired, mishaps are more likely to happen. It's natural to take pride in your ability to work long hours in pursuit of a goal. Nowhere is this more evident than at harvest time. Medications, drugs and alcohol also work against the keen awareness that is crucial to safety.
Periodic breaks relieve the monotony of machinery operation.
If you plan to eat in the field, at least climb down from the equipment and relax for 20 minutes. As a machinery operator, learn to recognize when you have had enough and turn the work over to someone else. Additional factors that contribute to fatigue are dust and noise, so be sure to dress for safety and comfort. Protective footwear and close-fitting clothes are essential when working in and around farm equipment. Appropriate safety gear should be worn where noise, dust, or toxic materials pose hazards.