Defeating the Heat: A Safety Guide for Using Garden Machinery in Summer

The soaring summer temperatures make safety particularly important when using garden machinery. High temperatures not only increase the risk of heatstroke, but also affect the performance and operational safety of tools.

Whether you are a professional horticulturist or a DIY enthusiast, understanding the risks and taking appropriate preventive measures can help you maintain safe and efficient work during the summer.


Prevent heatstroke and injury

Tips

Identify symptoms of heatstroke

Heat exhaustion: Symptoms include excessive sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, headache, and fainting.

If these symptoms occur, please immediately move to a cool place, drink water, and rest.

Heatstroke: This is a very serious condition characterized by high body temperature, confusion, rapid pulse, and the possibility of losing consciousness.

Heatstroke requires immediate medical assistance.


Wear appropriate safety equipment

Even in hot weather, it is necessary to wear safety equipment suitable for the device, including chainsaw pants, safety goggles, ear protection, and steel toed boots.

Try to choose safety equipment made of breathable materials to reduce heat accumulation.

Ensure that safety equipment fits snugly and does not excessively restrict air circulation.


Wear clothes suitable for high temperatures

Wear lightweight, breathable light colored clothing under safety gear to keep your body cool.

When not wearing a helmet, wear a wide brimmed hat to protect the head and face from direct sunlight.


Maintain sufficient hydration

Drink enough water all day long, even if you don't feel thirsty. Dehydration is easy in hot weather.

Avoid beverages containing caffeine or alcohol as they can cause dehydration.


Use sunscreen

Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen on the skin with an SPF of at least 30. Apply again every two hours, or apply more frequently when sweating.


Regular Rest

Arrange frequent rest in a cool or air-conditioned place to cool down the body.

Plan work hours to avoid the hottest time of the day (between 10am and 4pm).


Stay hydrated and rest

Specific guidelines

Moisturizing suggestions

Pre hydration: Drink a glass of water before starting work.

Hydration schedule: Take a hydration break every 20-30 minutes, drinking approximately 237mL of water each time.

Electrolyte supplementation: If working for a long time, consider drinking sports drinks or eating snacks containing electrolytes.


Rest schedule

Rest for 10 minutes every hour in a cool, shaded, or air-conditioned environment.

Use these rest periods to hydrate, rest, and check for symptoms of heatstroke.


equipment maintenance

Check for signs of overheating in the electric tools. If the tool overheats, make sure to let it cool down.

Store tools in a cool, dry place when not in use to prevent overheating and extend their lifespan.

By following these summer safety tips, the risk of heatstroke and injury can be reduced when using garden machinery.

When working with garden machinery in summer, please remember to wear appropriate safety equipment, stay hydrated, take regular breaks, and wear clothing suitable for the weather. Prioritize your own health.

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