Leaf Blower Safety

!: Leaf Blower Safety

Gloves
Wearing protective work gloves prevents blisters on the hands and fingers from forming after hours of rubbing bare skin during use. While using power yard equipment such as a leaf blower, debris can also pop up and hurt the hands. Insects disturbed during yard work may retaliate by going after the first human skin they see. When the hands are covered with gloves, this lowers the chances of being stung on the hands by bees, flies, hornets and other similar winged creatures.

Goggles
Eye safety is paramount. Wearing safety glasses or goggles will prevent debris from damaging the eyes. Small particles of dirt and grass can also get into the eyes and irritate them. They should be worn during any powered equipment use or yard work to prevent eye injury.

Clothing
Those using leaf blowers should wear long sleeves and long pants to avoid flying debris and sunburn. If leaves are wet, they tend to stick to the skin, especially legs and arms. Wearing thick pants and a long-sleeved shirt or jacket will protect the user and help keep them clean. Some landscaping companies issue workers a jumpsuit for protection instead. This preserves clothing and shields the skin.

Shoes
Work boots with steel toes should be worn during yard work, and especially when using a leaf blower. It will protect the soles of the feet from possible injury while walking over hidden surface items, such as pine cones, covered sticks and holes. They also help keep feet and ankles safe from snakes and other creatures in the yard.

Hats
Protective gear for the head comes in many forms, including hats, beanies, 'do rags, helmets and hoods. They prevent injury from flying and falling objects, as well as keep the head warm. This comes in handy on chilly autumn days during leaf clean-up projects in the yard.

Masks
For those with allergies and health problems, wearing a facial protection mask is also a standard piece of protective clothing. For others, it is optional. Outdoor allergens and air quality may be hazardous for those with breathing difficulties, such as asthma or bronchitis. Wearing a mask reduces the ill effects of being outdoors.