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Q: Fall is coming, we will be using leaf blowers more, what are safety precautions that I can train on?
A: When using your leaf blower, please keep these basic safety tips in mind:
- Read the instruction manual
- Do not operate while standing on a ladder, rooftop, tree, or other unstable surface.
- Use nozzle attachments to reach high places
- Don't point an operating blower in the direction of people or pets
- Do not use a blower indoors or in poorly ventilated areas
- Inspect the blower before and during use to make sure controls, parts and safety devices are not damaged and are working properly
- Never modify in a way not authorized by the manufacturer
- Do NOT use to clean up gravel or gravel dust, construction dirt, plaster dust,
cement and concrete dust or dry garden topsoil
Dress Safely - Wear hearing protection (either ear plugs or earmuffs), glasses that meet eye protection standards and non-slip, heavy-duty work gloves. Avoid loose-fitting jackets, scarfs, necklaces, jewelry, flared or cuffed pants, long hair, or anything that could become drawn into the air intake. Wear a respirator or dust mask as appropriate.
Noise Prevention - If you wish to make as little noise as possible, use the nozzle
attachments that help reduce sound (see manufacturer’s manual). Use the lowest
possible throttle speed and avoid using more than one blower at a time, especially
around buildings. Check the condition of the leaf blower muffler, air intakes and air filter to make sure they are in good operating shape. Where blower sound is an issue, purchase sound-reduced blowers.
*Leaf blowers can be quite noisy, with noise levels typically ranging from 70 to 100
decibels. This is comparable to the sound of a chainsaw or a motorcycle. Gas-powered leaf blowers tend to be louder, often reaching up to 115 decibels, while electric leaf blowers are generally quieter, usually around 60 to 70 decibels. Offer noise training and hearing conservation program if they are used frequently.
Cari Gray is an Industrial Safety Consultant Specialist with the Ohio Bureau of Workers Compensation (BWC).
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