Over 200,000 people work in grain handling facilities that process billions of tons of wheat, oats, soybeans, barley, and corn each year. Producing these massive quantities of grain is vital to maintaining our food supply and feeding our livestock. 

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) describes grain handling as a “high hazard industry.” Workers are at risk for engulfment, electrocution, struck-by incidents, and more. By exercising caution and following best practices, these accidents can be avoided. 

To promote safety and focus on training for these workers, OSHA is one of the sponsors of Stand Up for Grain Safety Week, celebrated March 27-31 with a different topic designated for each day:

- Monday: Stand Up Week Kick-Off
- Tuesday: Powered Industrial Trucks
- Wednesday: Preventative Maintenance
- Thursday: Heat & Extreme Weather
- Friday: Anhydrous Ammonia & Fumigation

Employers are encouraged to take some time each day to gather their team for refresher training or a toolbox talk about these topics. 

For resources on how to plan an event and find materials you can use, click here.