In the world of agriculture a power take-off shaft, otherwise referred to a PTO shaft, is the leading cause of farm related accidents resulting in death, dismemberment and serious injury. A power take-off is used to transfer power from a power source to another piece of machinery, such as from a tractor to a pump. A PTO shaft rotates at 540 rpm or greater, making it extremely dangerous to be around unshielded and unchained. All PTO shafts should be securely shielded and chained.
        1.Turn off the machinery if in operation. Ensure that all equipment is off and that the shaft is not rotating.
        2.Install the shield. All PTO shafts and the shields used are different. Ensure that you consult your operation manual for appropriate shield installation.
        3.Attach the chain to one side of the shield via the chain bracket or grommet. Repeat for the other side. Typically, a PTO shaft shield will have two chain attachment holes, one on both sides of the shaft.
        4.Attach the opposite ends of the chains to secure contact points flanking the shaft. Depending on the machinery you're using this will vary. Typically on a tractor, chains can be hooked to contact points that flank the shaft, or to a nearby sturdy metal bracket pole or post.
        warnings:
        Never approach a PTO shaft while in operation. The PTO shaft is capable of ripping your clothes right off of your body, or pulling you into the machine causing death or dismemberment. Use extreme caution when working around PTO shafts.