Snowblowers can be very efficient when removing snow from your property and in avoiding employee back injuries. However, they do present some hazards which users should always remain aware of! Share our Snow Blower safety tips with your staff to prevent a possible employee injury or workers’ compensation claim!
Avoid Fumes
Do not start the snowblower indoors, even if the door is open. Gas-powered equipment will produce dangerous carbon monoxide and must be started in a well-ventilated area.
Wear Hearing Protection
Gas-powered equipment is loud and can cause hearing damage. Snowblower manufacturers recommend using over-the-ear hearing protection for optimum safety and to keep your ears warm, However, you can use earplugs and earmuffs in a pinch!
Direct the Snow
Make sure the chute, where the snow shoots out of, is directing the snow where it can’t cause any damage or injuries to others around you!
Dress Tight
Avoid wearing loose clothing that can get caught in any moving parts of the snowblower
Clear the Area
Before the snow gets too deep, remove doormats, sleds, boards, wires, newspapers, and anything else from the area you’ll clear to avoid clogs and damage to the machine.
*Pro-tip* Be proactive in clearing the area… remove any objects from the area that you will be snow blowing before the snow begins!
If your snowblower gets clogged follow these tips:
- Make sure the engine is off.
- Make sure the auger and impeller are stopped before clearing the clog.
- Use a clearing tool or stick to clean out snow and ice. Many snowblowers have a clearing tool mounted somewhere on the machine.
- Do not place your hands or feet inside the machine to clear anything, even if the machine is stopped. There could be residual energy released after clearing and this energy can cause parts to move to result in severe injuries.
Anytime you plan on working outside in the winter review some safety procedures for avoiding cold-related Illnesses!