Objective:
To become aware of the dangers of the PTO system, and to learn to use the system safely.
Background:
Keep safety shields securely fastened on equipment.
Safe operation of the PTO is not possible without these
shields in place. A sudden slip or fall could throw a worker
directly onto the unshielded rotation shaft. Also those who are
unfamiliar with the equipment may not recognize the danger
of the power shaft.
Most power shafts can be extended. These shafts are usually
constructed with a square shaft inserted into a housing or
casing. It is important that at least 5 1/2 inches (14 cm) of the
sliding shaft remain in the housing when the power shaft is
connected to the tractor. This reduces the possibility of the
shafts separating while the tractor is in motion. If the shaft
splits, the portion of the shaft connected to the tractor is free
to whirl at high speeds, endangering the worker and tractor.
If the shaft does separate, disengage the PTO immediately
and stop the tractor. Use extreme caution when operating
equipment with a separable PTO shaft. Never hook 540 rpm
equipment to a 1000 rpm PTO or vice-versa.
Use caution when working with PTO Equipment
Disengaging the PTO before getting off a tractor reduces the chance of slipping or falling onto a
rotating shaft or getting caught in a moving part.
Integral shields should move freely. When the power is off, the shield should easily rotate by hand.
AGRICULTURAL SAFETY TOPICS
POWER TAKE OFF (PTO)
WSPS.CA
