MyME 
Your equipment plays a huge role in maintaining your lawn, farm or garden during the summer. As the weather gets warmer and you start to spend more time outside with your equipment, it’s important to stay safe when operating these machines. Follow these summer safety tips to avoid injuring yourself on the job or damaging your equipment.
Review the Operator’s Manual
Even if you have had your equipment for a while, it’s good to review the instruction manual and make sure you are running everything correctly. If your equipment is new, get familiar with its features, controls and safety guidelines. Review maintenance requirements and the equipment’s limitations so that you don’t have problems later.
Inspect and Maintain Equipment Often
You should always keep watch for safety hazards when operating your tractor, lawn mower or farm equipment. Check for loose or damaged parts, leaks and worn-out components. Make sure safety features like guards and shields are functioning. Complete oil changes, filter replacements and blade sharpening when needed. For tractor safety, monitor coolant, check your tire pressure, and look into AC service if your tractor has an air-conditioned cab.
Wear the Right Clothing
Wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) and hardy, comfortable clothing can protect you from hazards this summer.
For outdoor work, we recommend sturdy, close-toed shoes or work boots, long pants and a long-sleeved shirt to protect your skin from sun and debris. Safety goggles, earplugs and gloves are also helpful against flying objects, vibrations and loud noises.
Stay Cool and Hydrated
During our humid Minnesota summers, many of us don’t drink enough water. Keep a water bottle with you whenever possible, and drink plenty of fluid before, during and after operating your equipment. Find shady areas whenever possible and consider working earlier or later in the day when it’s cooler.
Keep Your Path Clear
Rocks, branches and debris may not seem like a big deal, but they can cause accidents, damage your equipment and slow you down. Remove potential work hazards from the area before starting your mower, tractor or farm equipment.
Additionally, be cautious of children, pets and bystanders in the area. Establish a safety perimeter with others if you need to.
Follow Safe Operating Procedures
Too often, folks lose control of their equipment because they are not following the correct operating procedures. This means keeping a firm grip on the steering wheel or handles of your machine, avoiding excessive speeds, being cautious on hilly terrain, not overloading your equipment and never operating machinery while tired or under the influence of alcohol or medication.
Get the Most Done This Summer
Your safety matters. Failing to take care of yourself or your equipment can mean big problems later. By following farm equipment, mower and tractor safety, you can get all of your projects done this summer without any issues.
For more information about equipment safety, check out our Knowledge Center. If you have any questions, send us a message or come visit us at one of our four Twin Cities Metro locations.
