Safety Equipment

Don’t keep an illness or injury that you have in the field to yourself. Report it as soon as possible to your supervisor. Your supervisor will take necessary action and follow up with any necessary written report.

So what are the main safety issues in the fields? Sunburn and scratches from corn leaves are the main nuisances of detasseling. Long sleeves and sunscreen (sunscreen will cause pollen to stick to your skin possibly worsening a rash or allergy) can save you a lot of agony. It is also possible to get slapped in the eye by a corn leaf or tassel–wear safety glasses (we provide these) to help avoid injury. For a list of what else to wear and bring, see the list below. Don’t skimp on bringing water. A can of pop or two is no substitute and causes you to dehydrate faster.

Absences and such Detasselers are expected to work every day requested and must notify their supervisor of an upcoming absence. Among other things, supervisors also take reliability of detasselers into account if they must decide who will work as the season continues. It pays to show up.

Only extreme weather will allow the crew to leave the field early. An early morning storm at the pick-up point does not mean it will be storming in the field or all day so please be there on time prepared to work.

Expected absences should be cleared prior to the season, not during.

Report in-field emergencies immediately to your supervisor.

Employees are not allowed to arrive late or depart early from the fields. And we will not assume responsibility for any worker who leaves the work site before his or her crew’s work day is complete.

Nettleton Corn Crew is committed to providing the best possible service for seed companies and farmers. Cooperate with seed company representatives and always keep in mind that you are on someone else’s property–show your respect by keepinghands off any farm equipment and by picking up your trash.

Sexual harrassment, doing anything illegal, causing harm to a person or property, using foul language, or other reasons considered sufficient by your supervisor are grounds for dismissal or other punitive action.

Detasselers are people who want to work and get along with their supervisors and fellow detasselers. If anyone is falling short of that, let your supervisor know so that it can be dealt with immediately.

Problems With Safety or Detasselers?

Talk with your supervisor. If he or she is part of the problem or is unable to satisfy your concerns, then Contact the Nettletons office at (519) 352-5391 and leave a message so that we can return your call.

Talk with your supervisor. If he or she is part of the problem or is unable to satisfy your concerns, then Contact the Nettletons office at (519) 352-5391 and leave a message so that we can return your call.

Water: Bring plenty of it. Some detasselers freeze drinking water in plastic jugs and let them thaw out while in the fields.

Food: Bring a lunch and a few things to eat on a morning or afternoon break.

Accessories: Gloves and Safety glasses to protect your eyes from corn leaves. This is mandatory and provided by your supervisor. We are very safety oriented and if you show up without your glasses and or gloves you may be sent home or charged for a new pair. A good sunscreen or sunblock lotion to avoid sunburn. Bug spray is sometimes helpful.

Safety Equipment: Hats, glasses and gloves will be provided by Nettleton Detassling on your first day of work. Employee’s are responsible to bring their safety equipment to work each day.

Shirts: Some wear T-shirts; others want the protection of long sleeves. Many layer the two, taking off the outer long-sleeve shirt as the day gets hotter.

Jacket: Most mornings are cold and wet; it’s good to bring a jacket or poncho and a sweatshirt. In case of heavy dew or rain, many people bring large plastic garbage bags to wear as home-made ponchos.

Pants: A light fabric is usually best, although blue jeans can be comfortable as well. Some wear shorts under jeans to handle cold mornings and hot afternoons.

Socks and shoes: Many people wear old tennis shoes and then throw them away after the season. Whatever shoes you wear should be light and easy on your feet. It’s good advice to wear socks to avoid blisters. (Extra socks and shoes are a very good idea)