Farming is an essential industry around the world. Those who work in agriculture are heroes who feed our families. The agricultural industry is very dangerous and requires copious amounts of clear communication between workers to have a safe workplace. Communication also leads to efficiency in farming.
To achieve safety and efficiency on a farm, communication plays a key role. Learn about the best technology agriculture workers can use to experience clear and consistent communication.
Two-Way Radios:
Two-way radios are great communication tools for agriculture workers because of their reliable connection, long battery life, and durability. When farmers use two-way radios on the job, they will have an easier time communicating with other workers and staying safe.
Radios are more reliable than other communication technologies, such as cell phones, because users do not have to worry about overloading cellular stations, low service in remote areas, and choppy connection in low service areas. Most agricultural land—especially for sheep farming—is in areas with little to no service.
In addition to a reliable connection, two-way radios also boast a long battery life. Most farmers work long hours compared to the average 8-hour workday. With long hours, communication technology needs to be able to keep up with a farmer. Two-way radio batteries are designed to last for 10 or more hours before needing to be charged.
Another positive to two-way radios is durability. Radios are engineered to be durable to high drops, water or moisture, dust, and extreme temperature changes. Not only are the radios made to endure these conditions, but they will also work to the highest ability.
Headsets:
One of the long-term dangers of farming is noise-induced hearing loss when working around large and loud machinery. Headsets can help prevent hearing loss by lowering the noise exposure for a user. Noise reduction rating establishes how many decibels a headset can lower exposure. If hearing protection is a priority for you, make sure to evaluate the NRR of the headset.
Headsets also help farmers communicate with one another because they can hear transmissions over the machinery. Headsets can come with boom microphones so the user can know what they are saying is being transmitted clearly. Moreover, headsets sometimes come equipped with environmental listening so dangerously loud noises will be filtered out and nearby communication can be heard.
Lastly, headsets can also enhance safe communications with Bluetooth connection. With a wireless connection, users can communicate hands-free. Moreover, Bluetooth means no wires to get stuck in machinery and either damage your equipment or worse cause harm to yourself or your workers.
Intercom Systems:
Intercom systems are often used for large mobile operations like fire trucks. However, these communication systems can also be useful for farming operations. For instance, when out in a field, the main truck can have an intercom system installed. All workers in that field could be using communications headsets that are all Bluetooth-connected to the intercom.
Intercom systems can connect to many communications technologies including headsets, speakers, and more. With this system, there is no need for individual radios. As a result, intercom systems can be a more financially intelligent communications solution, depending on the farm.
Accessories:
In addition to communication systems, it is helpful to have accessories. Chargers, conditioners, belt clips, cases, and hearing protection are all integral in creating a seamless communication structure.
After purchasing a two-way radio, the first thing you will want to do is protect your investment. Accessories like belt clips and cases are the first form of protection for your radio. Moreover, they can help prevent employees from losing their radio in the field and enhance hands-free communications.
The next great accessory for your two-way radios is a charger or conditioner for your batteries. Some chargers and conditioners are built into the same system. Conditioners help protect your batteries from years of wear to prevent overcharging.
Lastly, hearing protection like earplugs is also a great investment to prevent noise-induced hearing loss among farmers. Protecting your investments does not just mean protecting your equipment, it also includes providing a safe working environment.
Conclusion:
Agricultural work includes dangerous machinery, large and unpredictable animals, and sometimes rough terrain. All these elements add up to a dangerous workplace. Critical communications technologies are extremely useful to keep farmers and their employees safe.
Two-way radios, communications headsets, intercom systems, and a variety of accessories can be used to create a well-oiled communications system on a farm. If you have any questions about what accessories to purchase to pair with existing equipment you already own, feel free to contact our experts.