Safety is never a one-and-done process. Regular safety checks should become a part of a routine schedule for every operator. Making sure that everyone who works on and/or visits your greenhouse is aware of safety procedures and any potential hazards is imperative.
Here are some tips and information all greenhouse operators should know.
Risk: Falls from Ladders
Ladders are a necessary part of the business (checking vents, glass repairs, shade adjustments, etc.) and provide the largest opportunity for injury: falls.
Mitigation:
- Train employees on proper use and inspection of ladders, and never use a damaged ladder
- Place ladders on a flat, secure surface
- Do not climb higher than the third rung from the top
- Ensure shoes are free from grease or mud
- Always work facing the ladder
- Do not overreach, and keep torso between rails of ladder
- Carry tools in pocket, attached to belt, or raise and lower with rope
- Avoid aluminum ladders when working by electric
Risk: Greenhouse Machinery Injuries
Most injuries from agricultural machinery are caused by human error. Injuries on machinery can be severe to employee and cause large productivity issues via shut down.
Mitigation:
- Creation and distribution of machine-specific safety manuals and lockout/tagout procedures
- Hiring and training of competent and safety-minded employees
- Safety reminder signage on and/or near equipment
Risk: Hazardous Material
Hazardous materials (pesticides, herbicides, acid, etc.) are generally abundant in the greenhouse environment. A proper strategy to reduce exposure is key.
Mitigation:
- Training should be conducted for every employee handling or working around chemicals deemed as hazardous material
- Every employee should be trained in identifying hazardous symbols on chemical containers (e.g., corrosive, poisonous, flammable materials)
Risk: Slips and Falls
Slips on wet surfaces or tripping over objects can make up a substantial amount of greenhouse injuries.
Mitigation:
- Keep all aisles and walkways free of clutter
- Educate employees to immediately identify, quarantine, and clean up spills
- Perform routine inspections and develop a housekeeping program for the facility
Risk: Heat or Cold Stress/Fatigue
Extremely high or low temperatures can result in heat and cold related illness or fatigue.
Mitigation:
- Make sure all employees are trained in heat/cold stress risks, identification and prevention methods
- Ensure employees have enough water during work and are consuming water after work during high heat periods
- Dress in layers
- Heat or cold conditions may require additional breaks to rest the body from the elements with work stoppage during extreme conditions (some of which can be defined beforehand)
Risk: Greenhouse Construction
Operations are often expanding or renovating existing operations. This can result in a different set of hazards.
Mitigation:
- Work with greenhouse contractors and mark off areas where construction will be taking place• Inform all employees of the areas to avoid during construction
Risk: Lifting and Carrying
Improper lifting and carrying techniques can result in back injuries and falls.
Mitigation:
- Education of all employees on proper lifting and carrying practices utilized in their jobs.
- Reminder signs throughout work areas reminding employees to consider using equipment to lift and carry objects that are too large
Risk: Greenhouse Fires
Combustible material in a greenhouse (plastic pots, certain shade curtains, insecticides, fungicides, oils, propane, cardboard) can all fuel a fire, resulting in severe damage/injury or death.
Mitigation:
- Ensure adherence to greenhouse maintenance/inspections, which includes review of potential fire hazards (e.g., exposed wires, location of flammable materials, etc.)
- Educate staff on all potential fire hazards, protocol to address, and procedures to take during fire.
Make safety in your operation a priority and preaching it a habit.