During the summer months, increased workload and rising temperatures can put landscape workers at risk. Most of these risks have to do with heat-related dangers, but there are a few other problems to keep an eye on as well.
Since June is National Safety Month, this seems like the perfect time to take a moment and talk about how to minimize risks that come along with working outdoors in the summer. The jobs need to be done, so let’s make sure we’re doing them safely.
1) Prepare For Heat Exposure
The federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) lists grounds maintenance and landscaping services as two of the six industries most affected by heat-related illness. You’ll want to take steps to prevent yourself or your workers from ending up among the thousands of people affected by heat illness each year.
“Heat index” is a measure that takes both air temperature and humidity into account. The higher the heat index, the more precautions you’ll need to take when working outside. Everyone working outside should drink water at least every 15 minutes, even if they’re not thirsty. Workers will also need to take frequent breaks in shady or air-conditioned areas, especially when the heat index is high.
2) Learn To Recognize Heat-Related Illness
Heat-related illnesses include dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. All can be dangerous and, in extreme cases, some can even be fatal. Every worker should learn to recognize the symptoms of heat illness in themselves and others, as well as what steps to take when they notice problems. Click here for more information.
Keep in mind that certain people are more susceptible to heat-related illness and injury. New workers who haven’t yet acclimated to working outdoors in hot weather will need to be extra careful for the first few weeks. Certain medical conditions can also make working in heat more difficult. And even healthy, experienced workers will overheat more quickly if working with heavy equipment or wearing extra protective clothing.
3) Dress For Hot Weather
Most people tend to wear less clothing in hot weather, opting for clothes like short-sleeve shirts and shorts. But those clothes don’t provide any protection and they’re not good for working with lawn equipment. So how do you say both safe and cool?
The National Association of Landscape Professionals recommends wearing “lightweight, long-sleeved shirts, pants, and a loose hat with at least a 4-inch brim and a drape to cover the back of your neck.” Breathable, lightweight fabric helps keep you cool while the long sleeves, pants, and hat shield you from sun exposure.
4) Drive Safely
With more work on the schedule during the summer, employees spend more time driving between job sites. Many traffic accidents occur when employees are traveling for work. You don’t want your crew to become part of those statistics.
To help prevent any motor vehicle accidents, make sure your company has a driver-safety program that includes training that is specific to operating trucks with trailers. Also, remember to check driving records as part of your recruiting process. It’s also a good idea to periodically review current employees’ records to make sure only the safest drivers are operating company vehicles.
5) Remember Safety Basics
With all the extra heat-related safety tips to remember during the summer, make sure you’re not neglecting any of the safety tips you’d normally follow. Everyone still needs to wear protective footwear. They’ll still need hearing and eye protection when operating power equipment. And it’s still a good idea to wear gloves, which can help prevent sweaty hands from slipping on handles.
You can pick up any equipment you need for your lawn and landscaping business, including safety gear, right here at Richardson Saw & Lawnmower. And if you have any questions about safety gear or how your power equipment will perform in hot weather, just ask. Our expert staff will be happy to help.
