Utilizing a systems approach to develop an on-farm grain storage hazard assessment tool

Douglas Michael Kingman, Purdue University

Abstract

The goal of this research was to address the problem of engulfments in flowing grain that occur in on-farm metal grain storage bins. This was accomplished by utilizing a systems approach to identify contributing factors to engulfment which were used to develop a 28-question hazard assessment tool. A numerically weighted high- and low-risk response accompanied each question, the sum of which resulted in a potential-risk-of-engulfment score for on-farm grain handling and storage systems. The assessment tool was pilot tested using nine farms where previous engulfment incidents had been reported and nine farms with no history of engulfment. A revised version was used to score an additional 26 farms with unknown histories of engulfment and by three individuals personally familiar with prior engulfment incidents. It was found that the difference between the mean of the assessment tool scores of farms with a history of engulfment and the mean of the scores of farms with no prior reported engulfment incident was significant (p = 0.001). It was found that the management of grain during storage and an individual's perception of risk and willingness to avoid flowing grain hazards had the most impact on reducing the potential for an engulfment. In contrast, a history of plugging problems resulting from out-of-condition grain was not found to make a considerable difference in scores between the two groups of farms. The presence of stirring devices in bins, accommodation for lockout devices on electrical controls, and utilizing grain storage bins smaller than 20,000-bushel capacity also had little impact on the difference in scores. Based upon the level of significance of each of the 28 questions' ability to predict an increased risk of engulfment, it was concluded that a valid response could be obtained with as few as seven questions. Recommendations concerning continued study and application of the tool were formulated including the need for additional research to evaluate the effectiveness of the tool to change the behavior of farmers who own and operate grain handling and storage equipment. Findings also contributed to the revision of a potential engineering standard for on-farm grain storage structures.

Degree

Ph.D.

Advisors

Field, Purdue University.

Subject Area

Agricultural engineering|Agronomy

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