Nebraska Boards Sponsor Grain Bin Rescue Equipment, Training for Fire Departments

The Nebraska Corn Board (NCB) and Nebraska Soybean Board (NSB) are partnering to improve grain bin safety by donating two grain rescue tubes and two training sessions to fire and rescue departments in Nebraska.

In collaboration with Nationwide and the National Education Center for Agricultural Safety (NECAS), the initiative aims to equip rural fire and rescue teams with the knowledge and tools to respond to grain bin entrapments effectively. Grain bin accidents are still common, with suffocation from engulfment being the leading cause of death in grain bins. Between 2007 and 2023, there were 573 documented grain entrapments, and nearly half of all confined space accidents in 2023 were grain-related.

An entry form has been created by NSB and NCB for Nebraska fire and first responder departments to apply for the grain rescue tubes and training sessions. Community members, farmers, and emergency personnel are encouraged to submit nominations. 

The deadline to submit nominations is April 10, 2025. The selected grain rescue tube training sessions will be scheduled after the nomination deadline by NECAS staff.

“Grain bin accidents can happen in seconds, and access to proper training and rescue equipment can mean the difference between life and death,” said Andy Chvatal, NSB executive director. “We are proud to work with great partners to ensure Nebraska’s rural emergency responders have the resources they need to protect Nebraska farm families.”

Stand Up 4 Grain Safety Week is March 24-28. 

The best way to reduce the risk of grain entrapment on your farm or facility is to discourage entry into bins unless absolutely necessary. If entry is required, be sure to follow these safety steps:

• Ensure all equipment and power sources for grain handling equipment have been shut off, secured, or properly locked.
• The person entering the grain bin must wear a safety harness and lifeline attached and properly secured, or be seated in a boatswain chair.
• Wear an appropriate dust mask or respirator when entering grain bins to protect against dust and mold exposure.
• Never enter a grain bin alone.
• Require an observer located outside of the grain bin who can monitor the person inside.
• Ensure the observer and person in the bin can easily communicate.
• Ensure that rescue resources are available if the person does become entrapped.