By Andi Anderson
Michigan’s agriculture sector remains one of the most hazardous industries in the U.S., with 447 reported injuries and 21 fatalities in 2023 alone, according to the Michigan State University Occupational and Environmental Medicine Division.
Between 2001 and 2023, 14 grain engulfment fatalities occurred on Michigan farms—emphasizing the urgent need for improved safety education.
To address these risks, Michigan State University Extension, the Michigan Farm Bureau Family of Companies, Corn Marketing Program of Michigan, and MSU’s Occupational and Environmental Medicine team are offering a free statewide training series on grain bin and manure pit safety.
These programs are designed to protect farm operators, employees, commercial applicators, and agriculture business owners from the dangers of working in confined farm spaces.
The training sessions, led by the National Education Center for Agricultural Safety, will help participants:
- Recognize hazards in grain bins and manure pits
- Use appropriate safety equipment
- Follow life-saving protocols
- Understand the importance of caution in confined spaces
Each session runs from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m., with no fee required thanks to sponsor support. Pre-registration is requested and must be completed by June 16, 2025.
Training Dates and Locations:
- June 23: Cooperative Elevator Co., Fairgrove, MI
- June 24: Superior Fertilizer, Rosebush, MI
- June 25: Berlin Fairgrounds, Marne, MI
- June 26: Albright Farms, Coldwater, MI
Family members, who often live and work on the farm, are also at risk. These safety programs aim to reduce injury rates and save lives by raising awareness and improving practices across Michigan farms.
To register, visit the 2025 Grain Bin and Manure Pit Safety Training Program page before the deadline.
Photo Credit: michigan-state-university-msu
Categories: Michigan, Sustainable Agriculture