Proper instruction & information is critical

Do not to use any equipment without proper instruction; you are risking your safety as well as the safety of others by doing so. You must be properly trained to operate this equipment safely. Proper training must include a review of the operator’s manual as well as a skills evaluation to assure that you understand the features of this piece of equipment and can use it safely.

PPE Requirements

• Body: Wear long-sleeved shirt and long-legged pants. Do not wear loose clothing and assure all shirt tails and cuffs are tight to prevent pull-in hazards from moving machine parts.

• Feet: Use non-slip soled work boots that are at least ankle-height.

• Hands: Use heavy, anti-vibration work gloves, either of leather or similar material.

• Eyes: Wear ANSI-approved goggles or safety glasses with side shields or wrap-around lenses. A face shield or mesh screen is required when flying particles are likely. Goggles or safety glasses must be worn underneath a face shield.

• Ears: Wear ear plugs or muffs appropriate for the noise level of the equipment.

Operating equipment:

Equipment operators shall be trained and qualified to operate all equipment that they may be asked to use.

• Manufacturer instructions and operating procedures shall be followed.

• Training must be documented and kept on file.

• Proper equipment inspections must be completed before equipment use.

• Use fuel-powered equipment only in well-ventilated outside areas.

• Avoid overreaching with a equipment.

• Do not wear “music headphones” when operating. Proper hearing protectors must be worn.

• Be aware of traffic and protect yourself by using high visibility clothing and traffic control devices.

• Rotate between tasks to minimize hand vibration, repetitive motion, and strain.

• When available on equipment, a shoulder strap must be worn and properly adjusted to minimize strain.

• Do not fuel hot or running equipment. Use a rag to wipe up fuel spills.

• Barricade off work areas to prevent injuries to others.

• Before working in an area, the equipment operator must make sure the area is clear of people and hazards.

• Hazards may include uneven or soft terrain, holes, foreign objects, sprinkler heads, roots, hoses, cords, and any other type of obstruction that may be encountered.