Suffocation from engulfment is a leading cause of death in grain bins, and the number of these deaths continues to rise. Statistics compiled by Purdue University show that 26 fatalities occurred in 2010 due to grain engulfments.
The Kansas City chapter of the Grain Elevator and Processing Society held grain bin engulfment safety and rescue training for nearly 80 workers at the Atchison County Rural Fire District. Participants had the opportunity to don special equipment and become engulfed in 200 bushels of corn. Those who decided to try the simulated engulfment found themselves at least chest high in the corn, Mr. Myers said.
“We teach the hazards of flowing grain,” Mr. Harp said. “It’s getting worse. We’re moving grain at faster rates, which makes it more dangerous. The challenge with that is there’s more storage every year.”
Statistics compiled by Purdue University show that 26 fatalities occurred in 2010 due to grain engulfments. Mr. Harp said the Occupational Safety and Health Administration has placed higher emphasis on grain safety issues.