LAWN CARE
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By Michael Finati
Tips for Safe Use of
LAWN CARE CHEMICALS Maintain Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
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andscaping crew members often work with chemicals, especially if the company is actively involved in lawn care using fertilizers, weed killers, and various pesticides that can often be considered hazardous. Such chemicals can get on your skin, in your eyes or enter your body through inhalation, or be transported from your hands or the treated lawn to your mouth. The insecticides, herbicides and fungicides used by lawn care providers can be harmful if not handled properly. It is imperative to protect both your crew members and anyone else
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on the property from such hazards. First and foremost, one of the most critical components is proper employee training. Adequate training should always include correct application methods as well as the following safety tips listed below. All new employees require company-specific safety training, and refresher courses help all employees, regardless of their skill level or time employed. Here are few safety tips to keep your company safe when dealing with lawn care chemicals:
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A copy of current safety data sheets -- previously known as safety data sheets SDS -- is required in the workplace for any hazardous chemicals used by employees on the job site or around the shop. Safety data sheets align with the United Nation’s Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS) and provide information on the safe use, handling, and storage of hazardous chemicals. Obtain SDSs through the chemical manufacturer; store them as a paper or electronic copy.
Follow Labeled Directions
Every chemical product used in the landscaping industry has explicit instructions on the label for mixing/ diluting the product and an application protocol. The label will include information on application, first-aid information, personal protective equipment requirements/recommendations and storage and disposal. Always follow label directions closely, never mixing the product stronger than recommended, or applying at a higher rate. This is one of those times where it is important to take the time to literally read the fine print.
Wear Appropriate PPE
Any time crew members are mixing, applying, or disposing of chemicals, wearing personal protective equip-
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