SummerWinds Safety in the Garden Center

Working Safely in the Garden Center

SummerWinds

SummerWinds

A SummerWinds Safety Awareness Series Training Program

Jack is one of our video trainers. Listen as Jack helps explain the information we will be reviewing in this presentation.

Working Safely in our Garden Center, means working safely around equipment and our unique surroundings

Hazards in the Garden Center

Extreme Temperatures and Weather Conditions:

Unlike a controlled indoor office environment, garden centers are exposed to the elements. You may need to work in extreme heat, cold, or wet conditions. It's important to dress appropriately, stay hydrated, and take regular breaks to prevent heat exhaustion or other exposure related conditions.

Hazards in the Garden Center

Falling Objects:

In a garden center, plants, pots, or gardening tools may be stacked or stored at various heights. There is a risk of items falling and causing injury if not properly secured. Be cautious when reaching for items on shelves or when moving stacked materials, ensuring that they are stable and well-balanced.

Hazards in the Garden Center

Wildlife and Insects:

Garden centers attract various types of wildlife and insects, including bees, wasps, spiders, and small animals. Some individuals may have allergies or phobias related to these creatures. It's important to be mindful of their presence and take appropriate measures, such as wearing protective clothing or using insect repellents if necessary.

Hazards in the Garden Center

Heavy Equipment:

Garden centers often use heavy equipment such as forklifts to move plants, soil, pottery and other materials. These machines pose a risk of collision, especially in areas where employees and customers are present. Making eye contact with the operator while being vigilant and maintaining a safe distance from operating machinery is crucial.

Hazards in the Garden Center

Parking Lot Hazards:

Parking lot accidents are relatively common due to the high volume of vehicles and equipment maneuvering in confined spaces. Vehicles often enter and exit parking spaces, back up, and make sharp turns, increasing the likelihood of collisions. As you assist Customers in loading their vehicles, or at any time in the parking lot, be aware of all cars/trucks around you. Very tight spaces cause blind spots and a distracted driver, perhaps excited about their new plant, may not see you!

Hazards in the Garden Center

Pesticides and Chemicals:

Garden centers sell, store, and use pesticides, fertilizers, and other chemicals to maintain the plants. These substances can be hazardous if not handled properly. It's essential to follow safety protocols, wear appropriate protective equipment, and store chemicals in designated areas away from public access. Observe for leakage, spills, swelling, or otherwise disturbed packaging as leaked chemicals require special handling to clean. If you observe a spill, verify the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for the proper clean-up procedures.

Hazards in the Garden Center

Plant Allergens and Irritants:

Some plants in a garden center may release allergens or have thorns, spines, or poisonous sap. Employees and customers with allergies or sensitivities should be

cautious when handling or working near these plants.

Wearing protective gloves and washing hands thoroughly after handling plants can help minimize the risk.

Hazards in the Garden Center

Power Tools, sharp objects, and Machinery:

Garden centers may use power tools such as chainsaws. These tools can cause serious injuries if not used correctly. Proper training, following safety guidelines, and using personal protective equipment are essential when operating power tools or machinery.

Hazards in the Garden Center

Be aware of your surroundings at all times;

listen and observe for equipment, help ensure Customers and fellow Associates are aware of the equipment in use, a forklift, a ladder, a delivery truck, all can cause injury if precautions are not used to clear the area before use and observe for inattentive Customers or fellow Associates.

Hazards in the Garden Center

Uneven Terrain:

Garden centers usually have uneven surfaces, including slopes and drainage points. These uneven surfaces can lead to slips, trips, and falls. It's important to pay attention to your surroundings, watch your step, and use designated walkways whenever possible.

Minimize accidents and create a safer workplace

Feedback & Questions

Thank you for participating in this program

Working Safely in the Garden Center

SummerWinds

SummerWinds

A SummerWinds Safety Awareness Series Training Program