NFSHW23: Confined Spaces on Dairy Farms

Recorded On: 09/21/2023

Summary: Confined spaces such as tanks and storage bins are recognized workplace hazards on agricultural production settings. Manure storage facilities are often not recognized as confined spaces, especially on dairy farms. These facilities meet the definition of a confined space as they can expose workers to toxic gases and other hazards. The purpose of this webinar is to present how manure storage facilities meet the definition of confined spaces, and the potential hazards associated with these facilities.

Intended Audience: Agricultural health and safety researchers, extension staff, healthcare professionals, and agricultural producers

Objectives: At the end of this webinar, participants will be able to…

Understand the definition of a confined space
Understand how manure storage facilities meet the criteria for confined space
Understand how dairy farm manure storage facilities have contributed to worker fatalities
Understand management practices for confined spaces on dairy farms

David I. Douphrate PhD, MPT, MBA, CPE

CSP University of Texas School of Public Health in San Antonio

Dr. David Douphrate is an Assistant Professor with the Southwest Center for Occupational and Environmental Health, located at the University of Texas, School of Public Health. Douphrate conducts research and outreach related to worker health and safety through the High Plains and Intermountain Center for Agricultural Health and Safety (HICAHS), headquartered at Colorado State University. Douphrate and his colleagues conduct research and outreach with dairy producers to improve safe working environments while simultaneously improving dairy productivity and efficiency.