Mike Pearson tells us how attention needs to be turned to grain bins in 2023 and keeping everyone safe when it comes to them.

In 2022 grain entrapments climbed over 44 percent from 2021, according to a study from Purdue University written by Edward Shelton.

Entrapments happen when someone enters a grain bin to break up grain that has become stuck together. The grain can be unstable and cause the person to consumed by the grain.

One thing that can be done to keep producers and workers safe is to keep grain in good shape so no one has to enter grain bins.

In 2022, Iowa reported the most grain entrapments 9-- it was the only state to be studied.

The USDA studies all confined space accidents on farms, these include those involving manure lagoons, grain bins and accidents in small spaces that involve livestock.

Shelton urges agribusiness owners to use caution when sending employees in to the bins and best management practices regarding checking and cleaning the bins.

He urges all farmers to clean the bin site before harvest to prevent injuries and keep an eye on bin temperatures as well as moisture to keep from having to send people into the bins.

It's also important to use the best grain bin procedures and especially to use a life harness when entering bins.

Farm Progress America is a daily look at key issues in agriculture. It is produced and presented by Mike Pearson, a farm broadcaster and host of This Week in Agribusiness.