Spring is the time of year when many companies and individuals begin planning and preparing to landscape their businesses, streets, parks, schools, homes, and other green spaces. While landscaping can enhance the aesthetics of an environment, the work involved has potential hazards and can lead to injury if proper safety precautions are not followed.

Landscaping and horticultural service workers are at risk of exposure to chemicals, noise, machinery, lifting, construction, motor vehicle traffic, and extreme weather conditions. Companies or individuals employing people involved in landscaping and horticultural service work must ensure they are properly educated and trained for assignments. These workers must clearly understand the reasonably anticipated exposures and hazards of their work assignments and the steps necessary to adequately protect them from these risks.

The best method involves telling and showing your employees what you want done, then having them demonstrate what you want done to confirm they understand the assignment.

This article helps identify potential hazards and possible solutions to specific activities within the landscape and horticultural services industry.

Soil Preparation and Grading

Soil preparation is the process of preparing the existing soil material by loosening the sub-grade and mixing in soil conditioners such as topsoil, humus, and fertilizer to achieve a quality of soil needed for planting or landscaping. Grading is the process of moving soil to desired elevations or designed contours.

Irrigation

The process of installing and maintaining irrigation lines has specific exposures such as contact with hazardous materials (e.g., glues, cleaners) and exposure to excavation and trenches.

Hardscape Construction

The construction of retaining walls, hard-surface patios, decks and walkways, water features, wood construction, etc. may result in injuries from saw operation, lifting, slips, trips, and power equipment noise.

Planting

This activity includes tasks such as planting trees, shrubs, and lawn; tree staking; work-area housekeeping; and providing safe transport for crew to and from the job site.

Lawn and Landscape Maintenance

This activity includes such tasks as mowing, pruning, fertilizing, general cleanup, blowing, and providing safe transport for crew to and from the job site.

Tree Care

Tree care companies provide services such as pruning, chipping and removal, plant health care, cabling, bracing, transplanting, consulting, fertilization, and lightning protection. Many hazards in the tree care industry are potentially fatal. Exposure to overhead power lines, falling branches and tools, and faulty safety equipment are just a few of the dangers.