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