17 Jan Architectural Landscaping

Architectural Landscaping Safety

Architectural landscaping can involve much more than planting and soil preparation. Projects may include carpentry, excavation, irrigation, concrete and stone work, grading, material handling, and powered equipment. Because several types of work may occur at the same time, employees should understand the site hazards and plan each task before beginning.

Plan the Work

Review the site and landscaping plan before work begins. Knowing where materials, equipment, utilities, structures, and work areas will be located can prevent unnecessary handling and hazardous conflicts.

Before digging or disturbing the ground:

• Have underground utilities located and marked as required.
• Identify overhead power lines and other electrical hazards.
• Plan equipment and delivery routes.
• Establish safe storage areas for materials.
• Keep workers and equipment clear of identified utilities.
• Recheck conditions when the scope or work area changes.

Contact 811 before excavation when required so underground utilities can be located and marked.

Use the Right PPE

PPE should be selected for the work being performed. Depending on the task, employees may need:

• Safety glasses, goggles, or face protection.
• Work gloves appropriate for the material or equipment.
• Sturdy, slip-resistant safety footwear.
• Hearing protection around loud equipment.
• Hard hats where overhead or struck-by hazards exist.
• High-visibility clothing around vehicles and mobile equipment.

Sun protection, including appropriate clothing, sunscreen, and head protection, may also be necessary for extended outdoor work.

Landscaping Equipment

Trenchers, tillers, skid-steer loaders, mowers, compactors, saws, and other powered equipment can cause serious caught-in, struck-by, cutting, and crushing injuries.

Only trained and authorized employees should operate equipment. Inspect equipment before use and make sure guards, shields, controls, and safety devices are functioning properly.

Keep hands and feet away from cutting, rotating, and moving components. Never remove or bypass guards or safety devices, and never leave running equipment unattended.

Material Handling and Housekeeping

Landscape materials such as stone, concrete products, lumber, soil, mulch, and equipment can be heavy or awkward.

Use carts, dollies, lifting equipment, or team lifting when appropriate. Secure materials during movement and storage so they cannot shift, roll, fall, or collapse.

Keep walkways and work areas free of tools, hoses, cords, debris, and improperly stored materials that could create slip, trip, or fall hazards.

Outdoor Working Conditions

Landscaping employees may work for extended periods in heat, sun, cold, wind, or other changing weather conditions.

Drink adequate water, take required rest breaks, use available shade, and know the signs and symptoms of heat-related illness. Adjust clothing and work practices for changing weather conditions and stop outdoor activities when severe weather creates an unacceptable hazard.

Remember

Architectural landscaping combines equipment, excavation, utilities, heavy materials, tools, and outdoor hazards. Plan the work, locate utilities, wear appropriate PPE, maintain good housekeeping, and use equipment only as intended.