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.

Review Always operate equipment with courtesy Examine the work area and equipment for potential hazards Wear appropriate PPE Properly maintain equipment