14 common-sense tips for mower safety
1 Jun, 2005 By: Shannon DeCamp Landscape ManagementPull this out and pass it on to avoid costly safety errors
Lawnmowers are a key component of the landscaping industry. Unfortunately, they are also a main source of accidents and injuries. While many of these are minor accidents that involve burns or bruises, the more severe ones can result in the loss of a limb or even a life. Common causes for these accidents include driving too fast, mowing on uneven ground, using a mower that has not been mechanically maintained, and pushing a mower beyond safe limits. Fortunately, most hazards can be avoided by taking common-sense precautions. Remember that it is the employer's responsibility to ensure that employees are safe on the job.
Take precautions to ensure the safety of your employees before starting the job:
1 Make sure that your workers have the correct equipment for the job at hand. If an area is too sloped, or the ground is too uneven to operate the mower safely, use a weed eater or push mower instead.
2 Understand the throwing capabilities of the equipment, and make sure that the area is clear of anything that the mower might fling.
3 Do NOT permit removal of any equipment shields and guards that are installed on the equipment.
4 Determine that the mower is in sound mechanical condition on an ongoing basis.
5 Wear the proper clothing and protective equipment. This includes heavy-duty shoes, long pants and sleeves, safety glasses with impact-resistant lenses and hearing protection. Avoid loose clothing and jewelry that could get caught in the machinery.
6 Always fill the tank BEFORE starting the job, outside, in an open area, away from cigarettes or other heat sources. NEVER refuel a hot motor.
7 Do not mow under conditions when traction or stability is questionable.
8 Understand how the mower operates and hang on to all safety manuals.
9 Prepare the machine before use. Take available measures to increase stability, steering and traction. Make sure that the mower is in neutral before starting it.
After taking pre-work precautions, follow these additional common-sense guidelines for safety while mowing:
10 NEVER take passengers on mowing equipment, and always look behind the mower before backing up.
11 Remember how to mow safely on sloped or uneven ground. With a riding mower, mow up and down the slope. With a walk-behind mower, mow across the face of the slope. Mow slowly enough to be able to see and react to hazards in the path. NEVER try to stabilize a riding mower by putting your foot on the ground.
12 NEVER make adjustments to any mechanism of the equipment while the mower is running.
13 Practice safe dismounting. Disengage the PTO, engage the brake, and stop the engine and all parts before getting off the mower. Employees should be trained on precautions to take when dismounting the mower.
14 Disengage the PTO to stop the mower blade whenever you drive between mowing jobs, cross a road, path or sidewalk, or when the mower is not in use.
By properly maintaining your equipment, by following all required OSHA standards, and by ensuring that your employees use these common sense safety guidelines, you will reduce your risk of injury substantially. Have a safe summer of mowing!
— The author is client services manager with TechneTrain. Contact her at 800/852-8314. The company offers a Nursery and Landscape Federal OSHA Compliance Manual.
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