Grain bins are a normal part of farm life, but they can also be one of the most dangerous places on the farm. Already this year, two Illinois farmers have died in grain bin accidents. Every year, many more across the country are injured or killed after getting trapped in grain. With harvest coming up, it's a good time to review safety steps that can save lives. 

The Danger is Fast and Silent 

Grain moves like quicksand. If you step on a crust or bridge that looks solid, it can give way and pull you under. In just four to five seconds, you can be stuck, and in less than 20 seconds, you can be completely buried. 

According to Purdue University's Agricultural Confined Space-Related Injuries and Fatalities report, in 2024 there were 34 grain entrapments in the U.S., with 14 deaths—a 25% increase from the year before.  

Safety Tips That Matter 

The National Education Center for Agricultural Safety says the biggest risk comes when farmers are rushing during harvest. If someone does get trapped: 

• Stay calm and call 911 with the exact bin address or GPS coordinates. 

• Cover your mouth and nose with a hat and curl into a ball to create an air pocket. 

• If you're in a remote area, send someone to meet emergency crews. 

• If buried below the grain, turn on aeration to move air. If your head is still above the grain, keep still and do not run fans. 

Prevention is the best plan. Some things to consider: 

• Train everyone on the farm about bin dangers. 

• Post GPS locations and warning signs. 

• Keep people out of bins whenever possible. 

• If entry is necessary, always have a spotter, lock out and tag out all augers and fans, and use a harness tied to an anchor point. 

Many rural fire departments now train for grain bin rescues, but equipment and funding are often limited. Reaching out to local responders about their training and tools could save a life. 

Keep Grain in Good Shape 

Most entrapments start with poor grain condition. Moisture, mold or insects cause clumping and bridging. Regular aeration, working fans and clean bins keep grain moving and reduce the need to enter. 

Let Technology Do the Work 

Systems like AGI BinManager can track temperature and moisture from your phone. They run fans automatically, keep grain safe, and help you avoid ever stepping inside the bin. That means less spoilage, better grain quality, and, most importantly, everyone stays safe. Learn more about Grain Bin safety and AGI 

Learn More: Grain Bin Safety Webinar  

Illinois Soybean Association (ISA) and AGI are partnering to protect Illinois farmers. Next week, join ISA, AGI and El Paso, Illinois Fire and Rescue for an interactive discussion on grain bin safety.  Register Here for the webinar on September 23 from noon to 1 p.m.  

"The upcoming webinar is so important—it's about giving farmers like me the tools and knowledge to keep our families, employees, and neighbors safe. I encourage every farmer and anyone else who has a reason to jump in a bin to take one hour on September 23 to prioritize safety this harvest season.  

It's simple, guys: throw on your headphones and listen while you're in the field. Register today and make sure everyone comes home at the end of the day." – Bryan Severs, ISA Chairman