Great Plains 1625AHL Operator Manual - Manual (Page 113)

Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc. Table of Contents Index Maintenance and Lubrication 109
2014-04-21 Table of Contents Index 411-020M
Depending on its use, the 1625AH fertilizer hopper may
be or become a “permit-required confined space” under
U.S. OSHA regulations (29 CFR 1910.146) and similar
regulations, statutes, insurance agreements and local
enterprise policy. A written policy and permitting process
may be required for any hopper entry.
Hopper entry may be necessary in some unusual
circumstances, such as:
• Hopper level or pressure sensor replacement; or,
• removal of obstructions too difficult to pull out with the
meter box removed and not susceptible to fishing or
pumping out from the open lid.
Should such a situation arise, observe the following
precautions:
1. Evaluate the hazards
Review the material safety data sheets (MSDS) for
any treatments and/or fertilizers used in the Hopper
since it was last thoroughly cleaned, and the most
recent materials even if the hopper was
subsequently cleaned. Retain the MSDS information
for any medical treatment that might be required.
2. Designate or engage a team
Hopper entry is never a single-person activity. At
least one attendant/observer is necessary. Give
priority to individuals already trained in confined
space operations. Designate a leader (not the
entrant) who has authority to terminate the activity.
3. Protect the team
Obtain the necessary safety equipment specified for
confined space exposure to those materials, paying
particular attention to harness/line, respiratory
support and lung protection. This may include
contaminant detection equipment and positive
ventilation to refresh air in the hopper.
4. Equip the team
At least one attendant must be equipped with
communications capability, to summon outside aid in
the event that the entrant is overcome. Equip the
entrant with a safety harness and safety line.
5. Train the team
Review the hazards. Review the procedures.
Understand the use of the protective equipment.
Know the steps to take in emergencies. Practice
them. Train the observer to summon aid, and not
attempt hopper entry if the entrant is overcome.
6. Secure the planter
Block the planter wheels to prevent movement.
7. Disrupt crusting or bridging
From outside the hopper, break up any hard
surfacing on top of the material, or forming layers
within the material. Such layers are extremely
dangerous to stand on.
8. Empty the Hopper
Follow the steps at See “Dry Fertilizer Clean-Out”
on page 106. If a blockage makes this impossible,
use an external pump line to remove as much
material as possible without performing a hopper
entry. Pump until at least some material is exiting the
clean-out door. Leave the clean-out door open.
9. Clean the Hopper
From the outside at the walkboard, power-wash the
inside of the hopper. Use a mild detergent spray.
Rinse thoroughly.
10. Air the Hopper
Leave the hopper lid and clean-out door open, and
do not commence work until the rinse water has
completely evaporated.
11. Plan the work. Work the plan.
Postpone the work if any team members, equipment
or other resources are missing, or weather/lighting
conditions are not favorable. Terminate and evacuate
if any unexpected situations arise.