15 May Springtime Yard & Field Maintenance

Springtime Yard & Field Maintenance

Many industries are coming into their busiest season now–often with increased outdoor work in equipment yards, outside shops, or storage areas. Before peak activities begin is a good time to organize, repair, and clean up these areas. Time to accomplish this will probably be scarce later on. The following checklist may make this job easier:

Are chemicals kept in an outside storage facility? If so, are the following in place?

• Is the written Hazcom Program complete and available to employees?
• Have all employees been trained in chemical handling and spill clean-up?
• Are spill clean-up materials available, and close to where they’ll be needed?
• Are the Safety Data Sheets in an accessible place?
• Do all containers meet proper labeling requirements?
• Is the storage facility organized and inventoried on a regular basis?
• Are first aid/eyewash kits in place?

Is the yard surface smooth and even, free of potholes and ruts?

• Is there good drainage in the yard–no puddles?
• Is the area free of unwanted vegetation?
• Are the yard lights functioning and adequate?
• Is there a method of communicating with the shop if assistance is needed?
• Are speed limit signs posted and enforced?

Are fire extinguishers:

• Readily accessible?
• Mounted and secure at the proper height?
• Marked for intended use?
• Tagged with dates of maintenance?
• Is the area free of tripping/falling hazards?

Extension cords put away after use?

• Tools put away after use?
• Wood scraps and other debris picked up?
• Oil and other substances cleaned up when spilled?

If raw material is stored in the area, is it:

• Inventoried and organized periodically?
• Do material racks have weight limits posted?
• Are mechanical lifting devices used to store material in upper racks?

These are just a few things to check when outdoor work increases. Take care of a yard, camp or outside shop inspection now–before things get so busy, you won’t have time!