Nowadays, tools and power equipment like leaf blowers, trimmers, and chainsaws are a necessity for casual users and professionals. As the saying goes, “With great power comes a great responsibility,” is true for outdoor power equipment such as leaf blowers. Though you get control, leaf blower safety remains a risk of operation. Not using them correctly may create a problem for your fingers, neck, hearing, and property. Can you afford to compromise any of these?
To prioritize your well-being and that of those around you, it’s wise to consider alternative electric leaf blowers instead of gas-powered ones. However, if you must use a gas-powered leaf blower, Diamond B Tractors & Equipment mentions some leaf blower worker safety guidelines. These guidelines by the Stihl equipment dealer aim to minimize risks for both operators and bystanders. Prepare yourself with the knowledge to identify safety risks associated with leaf blowers and precautions to avoid these risks. Following these leaf blower safety tips will give you the confidence to carry out your landscaping tasks safely and effectively.
Tip 1. Create a Safe Workspace for Leaf Blower Use
Before beginning your landscaping task, you must prepare your workspace to avoid any risks or damages. Using a leaf blower risks causing damage to your surroundings, as these powerful machines can emit air at speeds exceeding 200 mph. For your safety and protect your property, follow these steps:
- Close all doors and windows where you’ll be working to prevent debris from entering your home.
- Remove any loose objects that are not securely positioned or heavy enough to withstand the leaf blower’s air force.
- Inform your family members that you’ll be using the leaf blower. Keep children safe, and immediately turn off the device if they approach.
- Carefully examine the terrain, checking for potholes, puddles, mud, slippery surfaces, rocks, or other obstacles. Plan your work accordingly to avoid accidents.
These leaf blower safety tips will help create a safe and controlled workspace, lowering the risk of injury and damage while achieving efficient results.
Tip 2. Prioritize Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for Safe Leaf Blower Use
We are all familiar with personal protective equipment (PPE), and while debates continue about face masks, the necessity of wearing PPE when using leaf blowers is real. Failure to do so exposes you to health risks. Adhere to the following guidelines:
Safety Goggles:
The air expelled by leaf blowers doesn’t differentiate between leaves and debris, making it crucial to keep dust, debris, and small rocks away from your eyes to prevent discomfort, retinal damage, and impaired vision. Eye protection, such as safety goggles or glasses, is essential when operating a leaf blower. Sealed safety goggles with adhesive rubber seals offer full eye protection.
Hearing Protection:
Most leaf blowers produce high noise levels, often exceeding the 90 dB safe workplace limit set by OSHA. Prolonged exposure to lower volumes can also cause long-term hearing damage. Stihl equipment dealers highly recommend hearing protection, such as active or passive earmuffs or earplugs.
A Dust Mask:
Leaf blowing exposes you to large amounts of dust. Certain particles can enter deep into your lungs and bloodstream, leading to irreparable damage. Use a dust mask or respirator to protect your airways from harmful particles.
Work Apparel, Gloves, and Footwear:
Expect minor inconveniences when engaging in manual labor with leaf blowers. You must wear appropriate work apparel, work gloves, and safety footwear. Choosing the proper clothing and protection is essential to prevent injury from debris, dust, and noise. Before operating a leaf blower, ensure that safety gear is worn to protect your eyes, ears, and lungs. Closed-toe shoes, a long shirt, and pants can prevent debris and dust from contacting your skin. Avoid loose-fitting clothing and jewelry as they can become entangled in the leaf blower’s moving parts, leading to serious injury.
Tip 3. Get to Know Your Leaf Blower
Now that you’ve taken care of yourself and your surroundings, it’s important to learn how to safely use your leaf blower. While leaf blowers are generally considered safer than other power tools, using them correctly is important to avoid risks. Both gas and electric leaf blowers can be unsafe if mishandled.
Read the leaf blower safety manual to learn the proper usage, including safety precautions, assembly, disassembly, and maintenance.
Basic Leaf Blower Safety Tips:
- Use your leaf blower only for blowing leaves, and avoid using it for other purposes.
- Follow the maintenance instructions mentioned in the user manual to keep your leaf blower in good working condition.
- Never use a damaged or partially disassembled leaf blower, as it may pose risks.
- Always supervise the leaf blower while it’s in use, and never leave it unattended.
- If you experience technical issues, unusual vibrations, or strange noises, stop using the leaf blower and have it checked by a professional.
- Avoid inserting any body parts or objects into the blower while it’s running, and never point the blower at yourself or others.
- Keep the leaf blower dry and avoid using it in rainy or snowy conditions.
- Do not touch the engine or muffler of a running leaf blower to prevent burns.
Storage of Leaf Blower:
Proper storage is often overlooked when we talk about leaf blower safety. After using the leaf blower, store it safely and securely. Please turn off the blower, let it cool down, and disconnect it from the power source. Store it in a dry and secure place, away from the reach of children and pets.
Protect it from moisture, dust, and extreme temperatures. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for storage, including any recommended maintenance or cleaning procedures. By storing the leaf blower correctly, you can prolong its lifespan and ensure it doesn’t pose any safety risks.
If you face any issues with your battery or gas-powered leaf blower, consult the user manual or ask the manufacturer or an authorized service center for assistance.
Tip 4. Gas-Powered Leaf Blower Safety:
Gas-powered leaf blowers emit harmful toxins that can endanger human health. As it is impossible to protect operators and the public from these pollutants fully, it is recommended to limit the use of gas blowers to essential tasks where alternative tools are not feasible. Handling and storing highly flammable oil and fuel with caution is important due to the health and fire risks when using gas-powered blowers. Please remember the following safety instructions:
- Never start a gas-powered blower indoors, as it can lead to poisoning and fatalities.
- Both gasoline and oil are highly flammable, so avoid spills that can ignite with even the slightest spark or temperature.
- Allow the blower to cool down before refilling it to prevent accidents. The engine temperature under power can exceed the flash point of gasoline.
- Store gasoline and oil in a cool, dry place, preferably in a tool shed or garage. Always use appropriate containers designed for safely storing these substances.
- Avoid smoking while using a gas-powered blower or handling gasoline and oil to eliminate the fire risk.
- Keep a fire extinguisher ready for emergencies.
Tip 5. Electric Leaf Blower Safety:
Electric leaf blowers, whether corded or cordless, are generally safer than gas-powered blowers. However, it is essential not to underestimate the risks associated with them. Electricity can be dangerous and cause immediate harm upon contact without warning. Here are some essential safety recommendations specific to electric leaf blowers:
- Keep plugs, extension cords, and the unit dry, and avoid touching them with wet hands. If they accidentally get wet, allow them to dry completely before using them again.
- Avoid using damaged extension cords and faulty electrical utilities, such as leaking batteries.
- Properly dispose of old batteries. Check the appropriate disposal methods instead of throwing them in the trash. This applies to any battery-powered tool as well.
- Be aware of the range and location of your extension cord. Tripping over or overextending the cord is more likely than in the previously mentioned scenarios.
Tip 6. Leaf Blower Safety Tips as Per Their Design
Specific blower designs from popular brands like the Stihl lawn equipment lineup have unique properties, which require additional handling responsibilities and associated safety risks.
Handheld Blowers:
Handheld blowers can quickly be dropped, potentially damaging the device and causing injury. Using them for more extended periods can cause arm, shoulder, and back pain. To avoid these risks, it is essential to maintain a secure grip, possibly by using gloves, and to wear sturdy boots with hard toes to protect your feet. Taking breaks to avoid prolonged use is also recommended. Consult a doctor if you have physical issues or experience pain while using the blower.
Backpack Blowers:
Backpack blowers are larger and heavier but are easier to handle once strapped to your back. It is essential to secure the straps per the user manual and distribute the weight evenly before turning it on. Avoid using a backpack blower if you have back problems like scoliosis. Wearing recommended work apparel can prevent accidents caused by loose clothing or insufficient protection.
Walk-Behind Blowers:
Walk-behind blowers are less physically demanding but introduce unique issues due to their wheels. They should only be used on suitable terrain that is level and free of potholes or rocks. Regular maintenance of the wheels is crucial to ensure they are fully operational. Only attempt to pick up the blower if it is turned off, especially if you are not physically fit. Wearing sturdy boots with rigid toes is also advisable.
Blower Vacuums:
Using blower vacs requires caution when vacuuming. Gathering leaves into a pile with a blower before vacuuming is more effective and safe. Avoid vacuuming hard materials like metals or thick wood to prevent clogging and damage. Do not vacuum water or wet leaves. Be cautious with loose clothing, long hair, plants, and other items that might be accidentally vacuumed.
Stay Safe, and Make the Most of Your Leaf Blower!
Leaf blowers are safe power tools with limited risks due to their design and power source following the general leaf blower safety tips with good maintenance practices and precautions when handling and storing gasoline or operating electric blowers is necessary.
If you want more information about leaf blowers and add a new one to your collection, contact Diamond B Tractors & Equipment for their Stihl equipment lineup and expert safety advice. Tailor safety guidelines to your leaf blower’s specific weight and power, considering your physical limitations.
Consult Stihl equipment dealers and prioritize your user manual for the most accurate and personalized safety advice. Stay safe and enjoy the convenience and effectiveness of your leaf blower in your outdoor tasks!