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Manure Pit Entry Dangers

Manure pit gases have killed farm workers and the family members who went in to help them. This guide explains the hazard and sends you to official resources.

Why are manure pits dangerous to enter?

As manure breaks down, it releases gases. In a pit, tank or other enclosed storage, these gases can collect and the air can become unsafe to breathe. Some are toxic, and others can reduce the oxygen you need.

Official sources describe the specific gases and effects. Check NIOSH, extension programs and the National Agricultural Safety Database.

Some pits have little warning at all, and the first sign of trouble is a collapse. Public safety reports note that these events happen year after year, which is why a clear, shared family rule matters.

• Toxic gas
• Low oxygen
• Gases that cannot be seen or smelled

When is the danger greatest?

Gas release can rise suddenly when manure is stirred, pumped or agitated. A pit that seemed calm can become dangerous within minutes once agitation begins.

Because timing and conditions vary, rely on official guidance and expert advice, and do not use a rule of thumb you heard from a neighbor.

Never enter a pit to retrieve a dropped tool, a pump or an animal. Plan equipment so retrieval does not require entry. Cleanout days attract extra helpers, some of whom may not know the hazards. Brief everyone before work begins.

• Agitation and pumping
• Cleanouts
• Entering after a long still period

Why do rescuers die?

A well-known pattern in these incidents is that a second, third or fourth person enters to help and is also overcome. Love and urgency drive people to act, but the same air that harmed the first person harms the next.

If someone collapses in or near a manure pit, call 911 and stay out. This is hard to do, so agree on it as a family rule ahead of time.

Families who have lost someone in this way often urge others to make the no-rescue rule firm. Take it seriously. Plan family meetings on this subject before the busy season so the rule is fresh.

How can entry be avoided?

Many pit tasks can be handled from outside, with long-reach tools, pumps and equipment designed for the job, or by hiring a trained contractor. Plan repairs and equipment retrieval so that entry is the last option.

If entry is truly required, it falls under confined space rules with testing, ventilation, equipment and an outside watcher. Ask OSHA and extension about what is required.

Check whether your state has rules about who may enter and under what conditions, and ask the agency directly.

• Plan repairs so entry is not needed
• Hire help that is trained and equipped

What about the buildings above and around pits?

In barns built over pits, gases can rise into animal areas and rooms. Animals and people can be affected while nothing seems wrong at floor level.

Ventilation systems and practices for agitation should follow official and manufacturer guidance. Keep people and animals out of danger zones during agitation as extension advises.

If you must be in the building during agitation, ask extension what precautions are recommended and follow them.

• Gas can rise from pits into rooms
• Animals may show distress first

How do you protect kids and visitors?

Keep pit openings covered and secured, and keep them away from children and visitors. Talk to every family member and worker about the danger and about the rule never to go in to help.

Put up signs and make sure lids and covers are strong and in good repair. Inspect them as part of your regular routine.

Lids and grates should be strong enough for the load and kept in good condition, with locks where appropriate. Review the rule again each spring.

• Covers in good repair
• Signs
• A family rule never to enter to help

Where can you learn more?

NIOSH, OSHA, extension programs and agricultural safety organizations publish information about manure gases, and many offer trainings and demonstrations.

In an emergency, call 911 and give the farm address and say that someone has collapsed in a manure pit.

Tell your local fire department about your pits. They may have no experience with them until you speak up.

• Give the farm address
• Say someone has collapsed in a manure pit
• Stay on the line
• Send someone to meet responders

Last reviewed: November 12, 2026. Written by the Farm Safety Editorial Team. See our editorial policy.