Be SAFE and COURTEOUS during leaf removal season
Objective
• To be able to identify and prevent the potential hazards associated with fall leaf removal
SAFETY SCHOOL > Information provided by the Georgia Urban Ag Council and W.S. Pharr & Co.
Background
• During the fall, leaf blowers and vacuums are an essential time and labor saving tool on the job
• Being safe and courteous will help the overall efficiency and effectiveness of your company
SAFETY SCHOOL > Information provided by the Georgia Urban Ag Council and W.S. Pharr & Co.
Operating courtesy
• Be aware when using leaf blowers or vacuums
• Avoid early morning and late evening
• Do not direct debris towards people, animals, automobiles or houses (especially windows/glass)
SAFETY SCHOOL > Information provided by the Georgia Urban Ag Council and W.S. Pharr & Co.
Operating courtesy
• Control noise and fuel consumption
• Use a lower throttle speed whenever possible
• Stop throttle use and point the blower in a different direction or down when encountered by people or pets
SAFETY SCHOOL > Information provided by the Georgia Urban Ag Council and W.S. Pharr & Co.
Safety
• Examine the work area and equipment before working
• Remove any object(s) that can be blown and cause injury or property damage
• Examine areas for slip and fall potential
• Pinestraw beds, wet driveways or lawns
• Know the area’s elevation differences
SAFETY SCHOOL > Information provided by the Georgia Urban Ag Council and W.S. Pharr & Co.
Safety
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
• High visibility vest
• Safety glasses/goggles
• Work boots with adequate tread
• Gloves
• Ear plugs or muffs
• Respirator or facial cover
SAFETY SCHOOL > Information provided by the Georgia Urban Ag Council and W.S. Pharr & Co.
Safety
• When starting the blower, follow the manufacturer’s instructions
• Avoid over-pulling and twisting the back
• If using a backpack blower, ensure straps provided are used properly
• When lifting the equipment, use your legs and not your back
• Avoid twisting when operating
SAFETY SCHOOL > Information provided by the Georgia Urban Ag Council and W.S. Pharr & Co.
Safety
• Let the equipment cool when refueling
• Loosen the gas cap slowly to relieve pressure
• If a plug-in device, avoid wet areas
• Use an appropriate extension cord
• After use, do not place the exhaust near combustible materials
SAFETY SCHOOL > Information provided by the Georgia Urban Ag Council and W.S. Pharr & Co.
Safety for vacuum devices
• DO NOT ride on trailer hitches
• DO NOT walk in the area between the truck and trailer
• Stay in line of sight of the driver
• Remember: if you cannot see the driver or their mirrors, they cannot see you
SAFETY SCHOOL > Information provided by the Georgia Urban Ag Council and W.S. Pharr & Co.
Safety for vacuum devices
• Machine guarding must cover moving parts
• Blades, PTO shafts, grinders, etc.
• Vacuum hose must be at least 8 feet long
• Be aware of height clearance around power lines, signs, etc.
SAFETY SCHOOL > Information provided by the Georgia Urban Ag Council and W.S. Pharr & Co.
Prevention
• Preventative maintenance program for all landscaping equipment
• Regular inspections to look for leaks (fuel, coolants, oils), cracks, missing parts
• Maintenance request program for employees to report any concerns
SAFETY SCHOOL > Information provided by the Georgia Urban Ag Council and W.S. Pharr & Co.
SAFETY SCHOOL > Information provided by the Georgia Urban Ag Council and W.S. Pharr & Co.
Review
• Always operate equipment with courtesy
• Examine the work area and equipment for potential hazards
• Wear appropriate PPE
• Properly maintain equipment