11 Mar Landscaping Safety

Landscaping Safety

Landscaping safety requires year-round attention because workers routinely use power and hand tools while being exposed to traffic, insects, weather, temperature extremes, and other outdoor hazards. Safe work practices and proper personal protective equipment (PPE) can prevent cuts, punctures, amputations, strains, and environmental injuries.

Power Equipment Safety

Mowers, blowers, trimmers, trenchers, tillers, chainsaws, and other landscaping equipment contain moving or cutting parts capable of causing severe injuries.

• Receive training and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for each type of equipment.
• Keep hands, feet, hair, jewelry, and loose clothing away from moving parts.
• Inspect equipment before each use and verify that guards, shields, and safety devices are installed and functioning.
• Never remove, disable, or bypass a guard or safety device.
• Before clearing jams, adjusting, cleaning, or servicing equipment, shut it down, disconnect or secure the energy source, and wait for all moving parts to stop completely.
• Never reach into equipment until hazardous energy and movement have been controlled.

Hand Tool Safety

• Inspect hand tools before each use and remove damaged tools from service.
• Use the correct tool for the task.
• Keep cutting tools properly maintained and sharp.
• Keep hands and other body parts clear of the cutting path.
• Select tools that fit your hand and allow a comfortable, secure grip.
• Cut branches and other landscaping materials into manageable sizes before handling them.
• Use proper lifting techniques and obtain assistance or mechanical equipment for heavy or awkward materials.
• Rotate repetitive tasks and take appropriate rest breaks to reduce fatigue and ergonomic strain.

Personal Protective Equipment

Wear PPE appropriate for the equipment, task, and hazards present. This may include:

• Sturdy, slip-resistant work boots appropriate for the task.
• Work gloves to protect against cuts, punctures, splinters, and abrasive materials.
• Safety glasses or goggles for flying particles and debris.
• Face shields when additional face protection is necessary. A face shield does not replace required safety glasses or goggles.
• Hearing protection when exposed to hazardous noise.
• Chainsaw-resistant leg protection when operating a chainsaw.
• High-visibility apparel when exposed to vehicle or mobile-equipment traffic.

Vehicles and Mobile Equipment

• Remain alert to moving vehicles and equipment throughout the work area.
• Wear high-visibility apparel when working near roadways, parking lots, or vehicle traffic.
• Wear seat belts whenever operating or riding in vehicles or equipment equipped with them.
• Passengers are permitted only when an approved passenger seat is provided.
• Maintain required backup alarms or other warning devices on equipment where applicable.
• Establish separation between workers on foot and moving equipment whenever possible.

Insects, Plants, and Wildlife

Long-sleeved shirts, long pants, appropriate footwear, and gloves can help protect against scratches, insects, ticks, poisonous plants, and other outdoor hazards.

• Inspect work areas for insects, snakes, and other wildlife before disturbing vegetation, debris, or stored materials.
• Use insect repellent according to the product directions.
• Check for ticks after working in vegetation or tick-prone areas.
• Know the appropriate first-aid procedures for bites and stings.
• Report serious reactions and obtain medical attention when necessary.

Sun, Heat, and Cold Exposure

Outdoor workers may experience rapidly changing environmental conditions.

• Wear lightweight, breathable clothing appropriate for hot conditions and insulating layers appropriate for cold conditions.
• Wear a brimmed hat and use sunscreen on exposed skin.
• Drink adequate water throughout the workday, particularly during hot conditions.
• Take appropriate rest and cool-down or warm-up breaks based on conditions and workload.
• Gradually acclimatize to hot working conditions.
• Know the signs and symptoms of heat- and cold-related illness.
• Immediately report symptoms of heat or cold stress and follow established emergency procedures.
• Get adequate rest and maintain proper nutrition and hydration for the work conditions.

Landscaping hazards change with the season, location, equipment, and task. Evaluate conditions before beginning work and whenever those conditions change.