Grain Elevator OverheadThe 2023 report from Purdue University’s Agricultural Safety and Health Program highlights U.S. agricultural confined space-related incidents. There were 55 cases, including 29 fatalities and 26 nonfatal injuries. This was a 33.7% drop from 2022’s 83 cases.

Grain entrapments made up half of the total, with 27 reported incidents. This represented a 35.7% decrease from 2022. Illinois had the highest total with 12 cases, followed by Iowa with 5. Historical data shows Iowa, Indiana, Minnesota, Illinois and Nebraska lead in grain entrapments.

The report also noted three multi-victim incidents, two fatalities linked to livestock waste pits, and nine grain dust explosions at commercial sites. Though the numbers are below 5- and 10-year averages, agricultural workers are urged to remain vigilant and adhere to safety protocols.

Read more from Purdue University’s 2023 Summary of U.S. Agricultural Confined Space-related Injuries and Fatalities.