Power-Take-Off (PTO) Safety

The power-take-off (PTO) allows a farmer to harness the power of the tractor engine to drive a variety of machines. It is just as important today as it was when it was first introduced. However, a healthy respect for the PTO driveline's potential for causing injury and death is needed.

• Keep all PTO shielding (including the master shield) in place.
• Repair or replace damaged or missing shields.
• Stay safely away from unshielded moving parts.
• Watch your step when walking or working around a running machine.
• Wear work clothing with no loose ends or strings to catch on or be caught by machinery.
• Keep long hair under a cap or tied back to prevent it from being caught by the machinery.
• Keep children and non-workers out of the danger zone.
• Stop the PTO when dismounting from the tractor.

Inspection

• Is the PTO shaft shielded?
• Is the master shield in place?
• Is the stub shaft shield available and in use when the PTO is not in operation?
• Is the PTO shielding damaged?
• Is the PTO shaft shield working properly?
• Are all workers wearing proper clothing?
• Is long hair tied back or under a cap?

Information supplied by the National Safety Council's Agricultural Division.