Spring Clean Up Safety

WRITTEN BY GARY SMITH, APARTMENT BUILDING MANAGEMENT WORKERS COMPENSATION SELF INSURED FUND

Ah, spring!  It’s time to shed the heavy winter coat and boots, breath in the fresh, warm air and dive into those projects outdoors and in. However we should take a moment to remember a few key safety rules.
Indoors
• Cleanup the shop or garage.  Good housekeeping prevents slips, trips and falls as well as fires. Organize tools and equipment.  Keep aisle ways open. Dispose of any chemicals that are no longer used or substitute with less toxic chemicals.
• Use caution when working with chemicals, especially when mixing.  Incompatible chemicals can result in severe injuries. Read the label and Material Safety Data Sheets. Wear the appropriate personal protective equipment.
• Be careful when moving heavy objects to prevent back strains. Bend at the knees, lift with the legs and do not twist while lifting.
Outdoors
• Before using any power equipment be sure you have read the operator’s manual and have been trained on the safe operation of the equipment as well as any unique hazards present at your property. Also ensure that all guards are in place and safety switches are operational. Look for any debris, rocks, etc. in your work area which could become airborne while using your equipment.
• Just like using chemicals indoors, read the labels and Material Safety Data Sheets for safety information and personal protective equipment needed.
• Inspect ladders prior to using to ensure the steps, hinges or side rails are not broken or loose. Be sure to use the correct ladder for the job and one that is tall enough. Ladders should be placed on solid ground to prevent tipping.  Extension ladders should be setup with a 4 to 1 ratio. For every 4 feet the ladder goes up it should come out from the wall 1 foot at the base.
• Inspect extension cords prior to using to ensure they have not been damaged. Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters should be used anytime a cord is used outdoors or in a potentially wet environment. Also check your exterior outlets to ensure the weather proof housings are still in working order and not damaged during the winter months.
• Be aware of changing weather conditions. During high winds do not work outdoors on the roof or from ladders. When lightning approaches, stop work and move indoors. 
• Prevent strain and sprain injuries from lifting heavy objects such as outdoor landscaping items improperly. Bend at the knees and use your leg muscles to lift. Get help when making heavy lifts from coworkers or use powered equipment. Avoid twisting your body while lifting.
• Make sure the fence and gates around the pool are secure and operational. Check for any gaps underneath the fence or at the ends which could allow a child to pass.
• Check for damaged sidewalks and parking lots. Pot holes should be repaired and uneven sidewalks leveled or the edges ground down.
• Check exterior lighting to ensure it is operational, any timers are correctly set and vegetation is not blocking. ■

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