Be safe and courteous during leaf removal season

Fall is upon us and 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.  

Operating courtesy

> Be aware when using leaf blowers or vacuums. Specifically try to avoid early morning and late evening hours.  

> Do not direct debris towards people, animals, automobiles or houses (especially windows/glass).

> Use a lower throttle speed if possible to control noise and fuel consumption.

> Stop throttle use and point the blower in a different direction or down when encountered by people or pets.

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 where there may be a potential for slip and fall incidents such as pine straw beds, wet driveways or lawns.  Know the elevation differences in the working area.

> Wear the appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for the job:

• High visibility vest when working near roadways, parking lots, etc.
• Safety glasses or goggles for eye protection.
• Work boots with adequate tread.
• Gloves to limit the vibration on the hands and to help avoid cuts/scrapes.
• Ear plugs or muffs for noise control.
• Respirator or facial cover (if necessary) to help prevent dust and debris inhalation.

> When starting the blower, follow the manufacturer’s instructions and 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.

> Let the equipment cool down when refueling.  Loosen the gas cap slowly to relieve pressure.

> If this is a plug-in device, avoid wet areas. Use an appropriate extension cord.

> After use, do not place the exhaust near combustible materials. 

> When using vacuum devices:

• DO NOT ride on the trailer hitches.
• DO NOT walk in the area between the truck and trailer. Stay in line of sight of the driver. Remember that if you cannot see the driver or their mirrors, they cannot see you.
• Machine guarding must be in place per manufacturer setting covering moving parts (blades, PTO shafts, grinders, etc.)
• Make sure the vacuum hose is at least 8 feet long.
• Be aware of your height clearance around power lines, signs, etc.
• Use back-up alarms when backing if equipped.  A team should be in place to assist the driver when backing. 
• Properly mark the work zone with cones or flaggers.
• Have a preventative maintenance program in place for the vacuum.  

> A preventative maintenance program should be in place for all of your landscaping equipment to stay safe and keep them running. Regular inspections should be conducted looking for leaks (fuel, coolants, oils, etc.), cracks, missing parts, etc. and a maintenance request program should be available for employees to report any concerns.  

Leaf removal season is a busy time of the year. It takes teamwork, coordination, courtesy and safety to do the job efficiently. Stay safe this fall season.