Gardening is a superb way to get physical activity and improve the look and functionality of your home. But you need to guard yourself and take appropriate precautions when you’re out with plants, insects and chemicals. Whether you operate a gardening business or like to do gardening as a leisure activity, there are safety precautions to prevent injuries and stay safe.
You need to follow these precautions to prevent distress, pain and injuries:
Wear Gloves When Working Outdoors
Wearing the correct gloves won’t just reduce blistering but may also shield your skin from pesticides, fertilisers, parasites and bacteria that reside in the dirt. When subjected to dirt, even the tiniest cut runs the chance of developing into a significant hand disease. Leather gloves provide protection against thorny items and poison ivy, bark, snake and insect bites, and other skin irritants from the backyard. Gloves also prevent sun damage and fingernail harm.
Avoid Strenuous Repetitive Motions
Unless you are comfortable and used to the action, repetitive motions like digging, pruning, trimming hedges, pruning bushes or planting bulbs can lead to skin, tendon or nerve irritation. Ensure that your gardening tasks are diverse and activities are rotated every 15 minutes using a brief rest involving so the very same muscles aren’t used over and over again, which can cause strains.
Use Appropriate Tools Instead of Your Body Parts
Use a hand shovel or rake instead of your hands for digging. Sharp items and debris buried in the dirt can cut you. If possible, remove items from the workplace before starting the job to avoid causing harm to you or your resources. Use trimmers with extended handles when tree pruning to reach high areas instead of straining your body. Utilise step stools and knee mats to keep your lower body secure. When using electrical equipment such as lawn mowers and electric trimmers, take extra care with body parts and ensure the area is bright. Wear protective gear to avoid accidents.
Use the Right Tool for the Right Task
Avoid injuries by using tools for their intended functions. Other significant tool hints:
- When buying pruners, loppers or shears, start looking for manufacturers with a security lock.
- Avoid products with form-fitting handles. These tools just fit one dimension of hands perfectly. If your hand is too big or too little, it is going to place more stress in your hands.
- Always follow the manufacturers’ directions for this application.
- Keep sharp tools away from children always.
- Always unplug electrical tools and disconnect spark plug wires on gasoline-powered tools when not being used.
Pay Attention to Your Posture
Postire concerns overall body position and comfort as well as the angle of your wrists, neck placement, foot positioning and all other body parts. Grip strength is at its highest once the wrist is in a relaxed or neutral place. Wear appropriate supportive footwear to support your posture see your local podiatrist for recommendations on the best shoe and a foot assessment to improve your posture. Your foot doctor will provide advice on how to minimise foot pain when gardening.
Sun Safety
When working outdoors for extended periods of time, wear protective clothing and equipment including sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen and sun smart clothing. Do not do gardening if the weather is unusually hot or at peak UV times around 11am-3pm. Drink water regularly to avoid dehydration and take breaks in the shade.
What to do if you get an Injury or are Involved in a Gardening Accident?
Should you cut your hand or finger, bleeding from small cuts will frequently stop by applying direct pressure to the wound using a clean cloth. Stop by the emergency room if:
- Constant pressure doesn’t stop the bleeding after 15 minutes.
- You detect persistent numbness or tingling from the fingertip or have difficulty moving the finger.
- You’re unsure of your tetanus immunisation status.
- You’re not able to thoroughly wash the wound by massaging using a gentle soap and a lot of fresh water.
- Don’t forget to safely benefit from the health benefits of gardening with your hands and resources sensibly.
Of severe injuries consult the emergency department or your local doctor. Always know your limits and take regular breaks. Don’t do tasks that are out of your capacity for example only professionals should conduct tree stump removal with appropriate equipment and training. When working for a gardening company, look out for your co-workers and work as a team for large tasks.