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15 May Springtime Yard & Field Maintenance
Springtime Yard & Field Maintenance
Many industries are coming into their busiest season now–often with increased outdoor work in equipment yards, outside shops, or storage areas. Before peak activities begin is a good time to organize, repair, and clean up these areas. Time to accomplish this will probably be scarce later on. The following checklist may make this job easier:
Are chemicals kept in an outside storage facility? If so, are the following in place?
- Is the written Hazcom Program complete and available to employees?
- Have all employees been trained in chemical handling and spill clean-up?
- Are spill clean-up materials available, and close to where they’ll be needed?
- Are the Safety Data Sheets in an accessible place?
- Do all containers meet proper labeling requirements?
- Is the storage facility organized and inventoried on a regular basis?
- Are first aid/eyewash kits in place?
Is the yard surface smooth and even, free of potholes and ruts?
- Is there good drainage in the yard–no puddles?
- Is the area free of unwanted vegetation?
- Are the yard lights functioning and adequate?
- Is there a method of communicating with the shop if assistance is needed?
- Are speed limit signs posted and enforced?
Are fire extinguishers:
- Readily accessible?
- Mounted and secure at the proper height?
- Marked for intended use?
- Tagged with dates of maintenance?
- Is the area free of tripping/falling hazards?
Extension cords put away after use?
- Tools put away after use?
- Wood scraps and other debris picked up?
- Oil and other substances cleaned up when spilled?
If raw material is stored in the area, is it:
- Inventoried and organized periodically?
- Do material racks have weight limits posted?
- Are mechanical lifting devices used to store material in upper racks?
These are just a few things to check when outdoor work increases. Take care of a yard, camp or outside shop inspection now–before things get so busy, you won’t have time!