Storm Ready Grain Bins Inspection Cleaning and Safety Tips

Step by step checks to repair, clean and aerate bins before harvest returns

Summer storms and unused time can weaken grain bins. Before storage begins, complete a careful inspection and basic maintenance. Start with alignment. Walk around the bin and check if the wall is straight, the eave is level, doors are square, and the bin is centered on the foundation. Note dents, bends, or gaps that suggest movement or wind damage. 

Foundation: Examine the concrete for cracks and uneven settlement. Confirm anchor plates and bolts are present, straight, and tight. Look for stretched bolt holes or missing heads that signal movement. 

Walls: Check the base and sidewall for rust, loose or missing bolts, and dried caulking. Watch for buckled or flattened sheets that reduce strength. Inspect bolt holes for tearing. Frames around doors or other openings should be square with sound welds. Stiffeners must be straight, with bolts tight at the wall, wind rings, and foundation; base plates should sit flush with shims as needed. Wind rings should be round and firmly connected. 

Roof: From inside, look for bent sheets or ribs. Inspect roof-to-wall clips, bolts, and any roof rings for tightness and correct shape. Confirm roof hatches seal well so rain cannot enter. Check vents, because damaged vents reduce aeration performance. 

Electrical and controls: Inspect junction boxes, conduit, and seals. Ensure connections to fans, sensors, and controls are intact. Replace frayed or corroded wiring. Review bucket elevators, spouts, conveyors, and supports for alignment, deformation, and secure connections. 

Filling a damaged bin can unbalance loads, leading to failure. It may also let water in and cause air leaks that defeat aeration. 

Cleaning: Using proper respiratory protection, sweep and vacuum walls, floors, doors, ledges, ladders, steps, and channels. Remove dust from fans, vents, and ducts. If a raised floor exists, verify the wall attachment is sound and all bolts are present. Inspect subfloor spaces for trapped grain, broken slats, or contamination; clean thoroughly and confirm the structure is solid. Use labeled empty-bin insecticides in hard-to-reach areas when appropriate. 

Safety: Train workers in lockout/tagout and equipment shutdown. Wear PPE, especially respirators. Dispose of debris away from the site to prevent reinfestation. 

Prepared bins protect grain quality and people. For more guidance, consult local Extension resources on grain storage and storm recovery. 

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