Heat safety
Drink water throughout the day, not just when thirsty. Take shade breaks. Watch each other for dizziness, headache, or confusion — those are heat exhaustion signs. If someone shows them, stop, cool them down, and get water in them. Heavier work slows down in the afternoon heat; pace accordingly.
Traffic safety
Wear your safety vest anytime you are near the street. Face traffic when working close to the road. Keep the truck and trailer parked as far off the road as the property allows, with hazards on. Never back up without someone spotting.
Mow safety
Check the area for rocks, sticks, and debris before mowing. Never mow with the discharge chute pointed at people, cars, or windows. Keep hands and feet clear of the deck while it is running. Shut the mower off before clearing a jam.
Mower troubleshooting
Won’t start: check fuel, choke, and spark plug connection first. Losing power: check for a clogged air filter or dull/damaged blade. Cutting uneven: check tire pressure and blade level. If it is still not right, flag it and swap equipment rather than forcing it through the day.
Lifting & back safety
Bend at the knees and keep the load close to your body, not your back. Ask for help with anything heavy — bagged mulch, stone, equipment on and off the trailer. Never twist while lifting; turn your feet instead. Repetitive lifting adds up over a full day, so pace it and take breaks.
Severe weather
At the first sign of lightning or a fast-moving storm, stop work and get the crew into the truck. Wait at least 30 minutes after the last thunder before going back out. On exposed properties, know ahead of time where the nearest covered area is.
Wildlife & insects
Watch for wasp nests and fire ant mounds before mowing near structures or mulch beds. Check for snakes in tall grass, brush piles, and around water features, especially in warmer months. If someone is stung and shows swelling beyond the sting site, trouble breathing, or dizziness, treat it as an allergic reaction and get help immediately.
Reporting an injury or incident
Report any injury, no matter how small, to your foreman the same day. For anything serious, call the office right away. Use the vehicle-incident or PPE forms on the Resources tab so it’s on record.