The 3 Important Safety Tips When Doing Major Landscaping

Whether you are trying to do some exterior work on your home to increase its value or you have bought an abandoned property you want to breathe new life into, major landscaping is likely in your plans. Major landscaping can be exciting since it can transform a space that is out of control into an idyllic outdoor space for you and your family to enjoy. 

However, major projects like this come with their own set of challenges and potential risks. For starters, you may find yourself operating heavy machinery or handling chemicals. This means that you have to have a safety plan to get the job done without an injury. In this article, we will go over some tips to help you safely manage a big landscaping project. 

1 – Get the right equipment

Selecting the right tools and machinery is the first big step towards a safe and efficient landscaping project. It’s important to choose equipment that is made for the type of job you are faced with.

For instance, a small electric mower might be perfect for a small lawn, while a larger landscape may require a more powerful, gas-operated model. If you have large rocks to move, then a small backhoe is going to get the job done safely.

PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) is also necessary even when doing routine landscaping but is especially important for big jobs. Eyewear is essential since there will be bits of wood, rocks, and other material flying around close to your eyes. 

Impact gloves like these T-Rex gloves will protect your hands from cuts and even if something heavy like a rock falls on them. Then there are special shoes designed for the grind of doing manual work in an unforgiving area. Look for steel toed boots that will protect your toes from heavy objects falling on them and even getting cut through by machinery like a chainsaw. 

2 – Do some preparation

Before you put a shovel to soil or start up that chainsaw, planning and preparation are essential. Think of this stage as laying down the foundation for your entire landscaping project. A detailed plan, outlining what you want to achieve and how you intend to get there, is your roadmap. With this roadmap, you can avoid costly mistakes later in the project since you had a plan. 

Take the time to familiarize yourself with every aspect of your project. What kind of soil are you working with? What plants are best suited for your climate and yard conditions? What are the safety protocols for the tools you’ll be using? 

But your preparation doesn’t stop at understanding the ins and outs of your specific project. In many areas, major landscaping work requires permits. 

This is to ensure that your project is in line with local regulations and zoning laws. For example, you may need a permit to remove a tree, install a fence, or build a deck. These regulations are in place for a reason. They can help you avoid accidentally damaging utility lines, encroaching on protected land, or creating an unsafe environment in your community.

3 – Use proper techniques

Knowing how to perform these jobs required correctly is key to not only getting the job done right but doing it safely. Start with training on equipment use. 

Many landscaping tools, from simple shovels to heavy machinery like tillers, come with their own set of operating instructions and safety guidelines. Take the time to read through these thoroughly and, if possible, practice using the equipment in a controlled environment before starting your project. 

For certain tools, like chainsaws or other power equipment, consider taking a safety course. Local community colleges, hardware stores, or extension services often offer these courses at a reasonable price, and the skills you learn can be invaluable.

Proper technique goes beyond just using tools and equipment. For example, lifting heavy objects, like bags of soil or stones, requires attention to body mechanics. Bend your knees, not your back, and avoid twisting your body while holding a heavy object. These lifting techniques can prevent a painful and potentially serious back injury. 

Make sure to always take your time as rushing can lead to careless mistakes. Pace yourself, follow your plan, and make adjustments as necessary.

Conclusion

As you get started with your landscaping project, keep safety at the forefront of your mind throughout the process. Use the above tips and learn them well so you can do the work safely and enjoy the fruits of your labor when it’s done.