Stability starts with the storage site

The supporting surface must carry the load and provide suitable firmness, level and drainage. Machines need enough manoeuvring space to avoid striking stacks. Location must also prevent interference with overhead electricity lines and sources of fire.

Bale shape, density, moisture and wrapping affect how it can be stacked. Round bales may roll, while plastic wrapping can encourage sliding. There is no single safe height for every material. The arrangement must also suit the reach of the equipment that will eventually remove the bales.

A stable stack can become unstable

Rain, settlement and deterioration of bindings can change the original geometry. A machine impact or removal of a neighbouring bale can also affect the stack. Inspection should therefore continue during storage and be repeated before extraction starts.

Damaged bales need separate management. If a stack leans or shifts, isolate the area and decide how competent personnel and suitable equipment will stabilise or dismantle it. Climbing onto the material to reposition it by hand can increase exposure rather than solve the problem safely.

Keep people out of the fall zone

Prioritise handling equipment suitable for the bale type, with adequate capacity and compatible attachments. Operators must be able to account for people nearby and keep them away from moving loads and possible falling bales. Include this task within the assessment of Risks in agriculture.

Plan removal to preserve the stability of what remains. Do not pull out convenient bales without understanding what they support. Bale-handling attachments must not be used to lift people, and working on top of stacks should be avoided where a safer alternative is available.

Loading and transport are part of the task

The vehicle bed must support the bales, which should be stable before restraints are applied. Load arrangement and restraint systems must suit the vehicle and journey. Straps alone cannot correct an inherently unstable stack or an unsuitable loading pattern.

Prevent loose material from creating hazards for other road users. At the destination, check for movement before releasing restraints. The unloading procedure should identify who controls access and who authorises work to proceed. Nobody should be allowed beneath raised bales, even during a brief adjustment or inspection.