If at all possible, limit the continuous hours spent on harvest to 8 to 10 hours a day. Working longer dramatically increases the chance for an accident because of operator fatigue and subsequent loss of concentration. If everyone is under a lot of stress, operator fatigue will develop sooner. Break up the harvest routine. Take a 10 to 15 minute rest break every 2 to 3 hours.
Short breaks are more refreshing than long breaks.
Snacking on nutritious food throughout the day will also help maintain strength and prevent fatigue. When working on equipment, make sure all power is turned off. Make sure hydraulics are in the down position. If working beneath grain headers make sure they are blocked. When not working in the field, try to talk about something other than the harvest.