Silo Gases - The Hidden Danger

We have all heard the old saying, "a little knowledge is a dangerous thing." This is true of many aspects of farming, and in particular with silo gases. In fact, where these gases are involved we ought to add that "No knowledge can be fatal." Although accidents caused by silo gases may not occur as often as other kinds of farm accidents, they are and will continue to be a very real hazard for as long as silage remains a common livestock feed. Because of this it is important that every farm worker understand the danger associated with silo gases and how to deal with them.

Silo gas is formed by the natural fermentation of chopped silage shortly after it is placed in the silo. Though a variety of gases are released during this process, the type of silo in which the forage is stored is important in determining which gas will be predominant. For instance, in sealed silos both nitrogen and carbon dioxide gases are created, but carbon dioxide is produced in far greater amounts. This is desirable because high carbon dioxide levels help to maintain high quality silage. At the same time, however, this odorless and colorless gas is dangerous. This gas replaces the silo's oxygen, and in high concentrations, it gives a person little warning that he is about to be overcome. Because of this hazard, sealed silos are designed in such a way that entering them is unnecessary.

A variety of gases are also formed in conventional or open-top silos but in these, nitrogen dioxide is found more abundantly. This highly toxic gas is characterized by a strong bleach-like odor and low lying yellow, red, or dark brown fumes. Unlike carbon dioxide, nitrogen dioxide levels reach a peak about three days after harvesting and rapidly begin to decrease thereafter, particularly if the silo is ventilated. After two weeks it is unlikely that more gas will be produced, although some hazard remains if the gas has not been able to escape the silo.

Nitrogen dioxide is harmful because it causes severe irritation to the nose and throat and may lead to inflammation of the lungs. However, what makes this gas especially dangerous is that low level exposure to it is accompanied by only a little immediate pain or discomfort. Though death can occur immediately, a farmer might breathe the gas without noticing any serious ill effects and then die in his sleep hours later from fluid collecting in his lungs. Also, many victims suffer relapses with symptoms similar to pneumonia two to six weeks after the initial exposure. For these reasons, it is extremely important for anyone who is exposed to this gas, even a short time, to seek immediate medical attention.

Like carbon dioxide, nitrogen dioxide is heavier than air. Because of this, as it is produced it tends to settle right on top of the silage or flow down the silo chute and collect in the adjoining feed rooms or other low lying areas near the base of the silo. Gas may even flow into the barn itself and become trapped in corners, under feed bunks, or lie low against the floor. The threat that this poses to livestock is a serious one. To prevent silo gases from poisoning your livestock, provide good ventilation wherever possible in and around the silo when silage is fermenting. It is important, too, that the door between the feed room and the barn be kept closed.

Safety of your family is more important than that of the livestock. Children should be of special concern, because the silage operation is often a fun event for them. It may be difficult to keep them away from the silo during its filling or for the two weeks when dangerous gases are present. Therefore, it is essential that the seriousness of this hazard be clearly communicated to each family member. But do not rely on this warning alone. Since you know best the layout of your silo areas, do what you think is necessary and reasonable to keep young ones from straying into them. This could mean padlocking doors, or in some instances, even placing fences or barricades in needed locations.

Ideally, every farmer should also avoid the silo during the critical period when gases are forming. With the enclosed silo this is easily done. Unfortunately, it is not always so easy to keep away from a conventional silo, for machinery breaks down, chute covers must be put on, and filling the silo is usually not accomplished in one cutting. Because entry into these silos sometimes becomes necessary while nitrogen dioxide might be present, it is best to use a self-contained breathing apparatus. This is the only breathing device that is certain to protect you from all silo gases. Do not expect dust masks or even chemical cartridge respirators to provide sufficient protection. Neither is intended for use where gases are extremely toxic or where the air has been replaced by gases such as carbon dioxide. Unfortunately, the intricate components which make the self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) effective against silo gases also makes it expensive to buy. Nor are self-contained breathing apparatuses easy to fit or use without proper training.

If you do not have a self-contained breathing apparatus, stay out of the silo during the first 2-3 days after filling. If you must enter the silo after the first few days, it can usually be done safely if the following precautions are observed. First, ventilate the silo and all adjacent areas thoroughly before entering. This can be done by running the silo blower for fifteen to twenty minutes before going into the silo, by opening all upper chute doors down the level of the settled silage, and by opening the windows in the feed rooms. The blower should remain in operation for the entire time you are inside. An important thing to remember is that the lower the level of silage in the silo, the greater the risk that the ventilation from the silo blower is insufficient to adequately dilute the silo gas. In other words, there is no guarantee that silo blower ventilation will make it safe for you to enter the silo without a self-contained breathing apparatus.

Next, you should never enter a silo unless another person is present, one who could go for help should you need it. This person should maintain visual contact with you. If gases are present you may not have a chance to call out before becoming unconscious or other sources of noise may drown out your attempts to gain someone's attention. Finally, though it will not protect you from silo gases, wear a dust mask or some other respirator to protect your lungs from the high concentrations of dust and mold spores which are found in silos.

Preventing accidents caused by the inhalation of silo gas is, in theory, very simple. Whether or not this is true in your experience depends upon your willingness to practice these safety tips.

1. Keep children away from the silo and adjoining area for at least two weeks after silage has been put in the silo.
2. Close the feed room door to the barn.
3. If entry into a silo becomes necessary you should

-ventilate all silo areas, -get the help of a second adult, and -wear a dust mask.

Regard silo gases as a real hazard NOW! Don't wait until you become a statistic.

Publication #: 870194