Basic PPE Safety List Every Landscaper Must Have

The landscaping profession is an activity that modifies features on an area of land, such as removing trees, adding foliage and grass, and using pesticides to reduce parasites. The lack of personal protective equipment (PPE) can result in hazards and serious injuries. These can quickly come from getting hands crushed to inhaling toxic vapors repeatedly throughout the day, causing long-term harm. So, let's look at the basic PPE safety list every landscaper must have while working their shifts.

Why Use PPE for Landscapers?

While many landscaping workplace hazards come with common sense, other risks might not be as apparent as others, such as hearing and respiratory injuries. Many of these hazards become gradual and may go unnoticed until it’s too late. Long-term effects can quickly become a problem when staff and workers ignore safety.

It’s essential for landscaping supervisors to prioritize safety and health above all else during daily operations. So, wearing the appropriate personal protective equipment is necessary to meet the required safety standards and allow for staff to provide the required protective gear they need.

Basic PPE List

Going through the basic PPE safety list every landscaper must have will prevent many accidents and injuries on the jobsite. Some examples of landscaping personal protection equipment include:

• Eyes: Safety goggles and glasses
• Head: Hard hats
• Face: Safety shields
• Hearing: Muffs and earplugs
• Hands and Arms: Gloves
• Feet: Safety shoes
• Respiratory: Respirators

Hard hats need to meet ASNI/ISEA Z 89.1 standard. The hard hat headband must easily stretch and allow for hourly, comfortable wear while having little to no dents, cracks, or visible damage. As for ear protection, hearing protection is necessary for employees exposed to 90 decibels or greater in 8 hours. Employees must wear high visibility jackets and eye protection that meets ANSI Z87.1 impact standards. Lastly, it’s vital to wear cut-proof work gloves to prevent hazardous chemical contact, fire, and electrical injuries.

Common Activities Requiring Protection

While on the job, you’ll work with numerous activities that require injury prevention. Activities such as using a chainsaw or loud machinery require anti-vibration protective gear and ear protection. Employees also handle and apply pesticides and other harmful chemicals, cut or chip concrete, and create sharp and hazardous flying debris.

Make sure to check in with your employer for the necessary personal protective equipment and obtain the proper PPE training. Experiencing an injury on the job can happen at any time, even when it is out of your control. Staying protected will help your team complete assigned strenuous tasks with little chance of injury.