The dairy industry is a $59 billion enterprise in the United States that in most cases does not have automatic fire suppression systems, firefighting response equipment or training for employees, but typically has considerable property risks due to the presence of both ignition sources, and combustible and flammable materials. Where there are heaters, coolers, electrical fixtures, and milking equipment on a dairy, there are often nearby haystacks, animal fodder, bedding, oils and fuels, the combination of which create a potentially explosive situation.
In light of the aforementioned catastrophic dairy fire – the most extensive barn blaze in Texas history – which resulted in the death of 18,000 dairy cattle, razed structures, and injured a farm employee, as well as the increase in wildfire activity in areas that historically have not been at risk, the urgency to improve fire protection measures in the dairy industry is unquestionable. Taking proactive steps in fire prevention will help reduce fire risk, improve survivability if a fire does occur, and improve the insurance underwriting profile of your property and your business.
8 Steps toward Dairy Fire Mitigation
Protecting a dairy from fire risks requires a comprehensive strategy. Dairy farmers everywhere can help lower their fire related hazards by incorporating these preventive measures.
1. Good housekeeping. Maintaining an organized, clean, and clutter-free environment is essential in mitigating fire hazards on a dairy farm. Ensuring a minimum gap of three feet between combustible materials like bedding, hay, and miscellaneous from electrical components, and designating well-placed storage sites for both combustible materials and machinery away from livestock are key to this effort. Routine clearing and disposal of hazardous substances, weeds, dust, and debris is crucial, as is periodic cleaning of fans, grain augers, and other equipment using compressed air. If your dairy is not a smoke-free workplace, ensure the designated smoking areas are located away from buildings, combustibles, etc. and equipped with proper cigarette receptacles, a fire extinguisher, and employee awareness of the requirement to fully extinguish their cigarettes before leaving.
2. Conduct ongoing risk assessments. Regular consultations with insurance and fire department inspectors will gauge risk levels and raise your emergency preparedness. Reassessing risk when operations change, new equipment is acquired, or similar events occur is best practice.
3. Safeguard electrical and equipment. The electrical system components installed in livestock barns are subject to corrosion from airborne animal and manure contaminants. Adequate ventilation is required to prevent the buildup of combustible gases, and installing equipment suitable for humid and corrosive conditions is vital. Regular maintenance of wiring, grounding of machinery, and using only fixtures that are resistant to dust and moisture are necessary. Engage a certified thermographer to complete an infrared inspection of all electrical panels. This will help identify potential electrical problems, which could indicate an unsafe condition and should be rectified before it leads to a system malfunction, overheat condition, or fire.
4. Assess existing fire barriers. Regular inspection and maintenance of barn fire partitions, fire segregations, and attic fire barriers are key parts of a fire-safe foundation. These structures serve as the front line of defense in case of an explosion or conflagration. Ensuring clear and accessible pathways for first responders throughout the year is key.
5. Detailed heater management. In barns housing under-barn manure storage, heaters should be deployed only if proper ventilation removes any accumulation of gases, and the heater manufacturer’s instructions and applicable fire safety codes are strictly adhered to.
6. Practice caution during heat-related activities. Operations involving high temperatures, such as gas or electric welding, cutting, or any activities generating flames or sparks, should strictly adhere to approved safety plans to reduce hazards.
7. Proper use of electrical equipment. Employing temporary electrical equipment, especially extension cords, should be limited. Ensuring that outlets and electrical circuits aren’t overloaded, and have adequate cooling airflow is important.
8. Create a fire safety plan. Devising and implementing an all-encompassing Fire Safety Plan is a key first step in mitigating your fire risks. This strategy should include fire prevention tactics, and outline employee responsibilities for potential fire incidents.
Proactive prevention
The recent tragedy is a somber reminder that fire prevention is not an option, but a duty as a dairy business that safeguards the well-being of animals, and their caregivers. Through cooperation, education, and following best practices, dairy farms nationwide will be safer and owners, employees, and livestock will benefit from the improvements.
About the authors
David Laks is VP/Risk Control Services Manager Eastern Canada on the Risk Services team at global insurance brokerage Hub International. He brings 30 years of experience in risk control consulting. He develops and implements solutions in the areas of property loss control, building envelop analysis, risk mitigation, construction management, training, business continuity, and regulatory compliance. Prior to joining HUB, Mr. Laks was the Loss Control Manager with a Fortune 100 food manufacturing company responsible for all aspects of property risk management.
Eric Lowe is Vice President for the Risk Services Division of Hub International insurance brokerage, managing HUB Colorado, HUB Mountain States and HUB Northwest. He has over 30 years of professional experience in safety and health management. He develops and implements solutions in risk mitigation, safety, security, fleet management, products liability, regulatory compliance, training, and worker’s compensation cost reduction.
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