Knowing the dangers and preventing the hazards

Objective To make all employees aware of the possible dangers when using these tools, prevent injuries, and eliminate misuse SAFETY SCHOOL > Information provided by the Georgia Urban Ag Council and W.S. Pharr & Co.

Numerous safety considerations Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Ergonomics Electrical safety Fuel-handling safety Proper guarding Correct application Workers’ awareness of surroundings SAFETY SCHOOL > Information provided by the Georgia Urban Ag Council and W.S. Pharr & Co.

Common injuries Leg lacerations Electric or gas-powered shears or hedge trimmers Workers’ arms begin to tire after extended use Natural tendency is to lower the tool to the side or front of the thighs while taking a breather SAFETY SCHOOL > Information provided by the Georgia Urban Ag Council and W.S. Pharr & Co.

Common injuries Electrical shocks Ensure that tools… have a three-wire cord with a ground and are plugged into a grounded receptacle are double insulated, or are powered by a low-voltage isolation transformer Electrical shocks can lead to fatal heart failure, burns, and falls from elevated surfaces SAFETY SCHOOL > Information provided by the Georgia Urban Ag Council and W.S. Pharr & Co.

Safety Tip 1 Use the right tool for the job In a hurry, grab the nearest tool or object to get the job done, even though it’s not the proper tool A wrench for a hammer, a screwdriver for a chisel, or a pocketknife for a utility knife, etc. Take the time to find the right tool for the job SAFETY SCHOOL > Information provided by the Georgia Urban Ag Council and W.S. Pharr & Co.

Safety Tip 2 Personal Protective Equipment Know what PPE your company requires for each power tool you use and wear it Safety glasses are the most required PPE while operating equipment Some tools require face shield Always check the manufacturer’s recommendations SAFETY SCHOOL > Information provided by the Georgia Urban Ag Council and W.S. Pharr & Co.

Safety Tip 3 Cords Keep cords away from heat, oil, and sharp edges Disconnect tools when you’re not using them, before servicing them, and when changing accessories Ensure cords from electric tools don’t present a tripping hazard SAFETY SCHOOL > Information provided by the Georgia Urban Ag Council and W.S. Pharr & Co.

Safety Tip 4 Right tool, wrong handling Maintain good footing and balance Wearing sturdy work boots can help Be aware of your surroundings and the position of the power tool in relation to your body Be careful not to relax your arms in a way that brings the cutting edges of shears, trimmers, or other tools in contact with your legs SAFETY SCHOOL > Information provided by the Georgia Urban Ag Council and W.S. Pharr & Co.

Safety Tip 5 Right container for fuel Handle, transport, and store fuel for power tools only in approved containers for flammable liquids SAFETY SCHOOL > Information provided by the Georgia Urban Ag Council and W.S. Pharr & Co.

Safety Tip 6 Time for new tools? Inspect and maintain tools regularly to ensure they are in good condition Consider phasing out older equipment and replacing with ergonomically friendly versions now on the market Many new tools also are quieter, lighter, and emit less pollution SAFETY SCHOOL > Information provided by the Georgia Urban Ag Council and W.S. Pharr & Co.

Safety Tip 7 Job rotation Rotate employees among different tasks and allow rest periods to improve ergonomics SAFETY SCHOOL > Information provided by the Georgia Urban Ag Council and W.S. Pharr & Co.

Safety Tip 8 Train, train, train Train on the proper use of all tools Learn to recognize hazards associated with different handheld tools and know the necessary precautions Have the manufacturer’s operating instructions for each tool available SAFETY SCHOOL > Information provided by the Georgia Urban Ag Council and W.S. Pharr & Co.

Review Learn about the handheld power tools that you use everyday Wear the proper PPE when working with handheld power tools Train on any new handheld power tools introduced to the job Inspect all tools before use SAFETY SCHOOL > Information provided by the Georgia Urban Ag Council and W.S. Pharr & Co.