subject: Important health and safety matters to consider when working in your garden [print this page] Important health and safety matters to consider when working in your garden
I don't think it is necessary to use quotes from The Health And Safety At Work Act' but just to give you a general idea, so here goes.
When using any chemicals always follow the manufacturers instructions, and wear protective equipment (safety glasses, gloves, overalls etc.)
Wear strong boots or shoes (preferably with steel toecaps)
When handling rubbish wear protective gloves to avoid any contamination
When handling thorny plants or nettles for example wear protective gloves
If working at height always ensure your platform is safely secured
If using any power tools always follow the recommended guidelines
Don't overdo it and take regular breaks
If something is difficult or heavy get some assistance
Protect yourself from the sun if necessary
The above are just a few basic precautions you should take, although there are many more. The main thing is to use your own common sense and don't do anything that you feel could cause you harm, if you are unsure about anything then seek advice.
The garden can be very dangerous if precautions are not put into place, but by taking time to be sure that all is safe a much more user friendly place can be enjoyed by all.
Below is a few examples to give you an idea about the importance of health and safety in the garden:
We know that a person can drown in just a small amount of water, so things like being careful around the garden pond and being sure that children are supervised are obvious issues to be aware of.
Many garden tools have sharp edges or blades so be extra careful with these and put them away somewhere safe once you've finished using them.
Imagine the damage that can be done should an inexperienced person or child get hold of an electric jigsaw, jet wash or power drill whilst the power is still on.
All garden chemicals are highly toxic so you must be certain to wear the appropriate protective wear whilst using them, and store them away safely when not in use.
I remember many years ago how a young boy was digging in the garden with a garden fork and somehow managed to push one of the prongs right through his big toe and thus pinning him to the ground. That must have hurt - let me tell you this, It hurt like crazy!' I know because I was that boy. It certainly taught me a lesson about safety and fortunately no long-term damage has been done, but that may not always be the case.
So as you see it is very important to pay attention to these potential dangers when in the garden.
Common sense plays a big part but a little extra vigilance can go that much further.
