HEALTH & SAFETY GUIDELINES FOR ONTARIO GREENHOUSES

Table of Contents
Introduction................................................................................................................1 Health and Safety Policy.............................................................................................2 Example of Health & Safety Policy .............................................................................3 What is Due Diligence.................................................................................................4 What is the Law?.........................................................................................................4 The Law as a Guideline...............................................................................................5 What Does the Occupational Health and Safety Act Say? .........................................5 Do I need a Health & Safety Committee? ..................................................................6 What about Compensation Coverage for Workers?....................................................9 First Aid in the Workplace ..........................................................................................10 Accident Investigation Procedure ...............................................................................11 Accident Investigation Checklist.................................................................................12 Suggestions for Developing Employee Training Programs ...........................................13 Checklist for new Employees in New Positions ..........................................................15 Workplace Inspections ................................................................................................16 Boiler Safety in Greenhouses ......................................................................................17 An Emergency Action Plan .........................................................................................18 Fire Protection ............................................................................................................19 Housekeeping and Safety ...........................................................................................20 Ergonomics and Your Employees ................................................................................22 Personal Protective Equipment ..................................................................................22 Handling Broken Glass................................................................................................22 Handling Waste Light Bulbs ........................................................................................23 Retail Operation & Safety...........................................................................................23 Employee Facilities .....................................................................................................24 Proper hand Washing..................................................................................................25 Safety in Storage Areas................................................................................................25 Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System ..................................................26 What Other hazard Symbols are there? ......................................................................30 Pesticide Storage and Transportation..........................................................................31 Lockout.......................................................................................................................32 Lockout/Tagout Procedures........................................................................................33 General Lockout recommendations When Servicing Machines ..................................36 Safe Lifting and Carrying Techniques ..........................................................................38 Preventing Slips and Falls ............................................................................................40 Safe Use of Ladders.....................................................................................................42 Dangers of Heat Stress ................................................................................................44 Agricultural Machinery Hazards ..................................................................................46 Preventing Injuries to Workers by Robots ...................................................................52 Operation of Power Elevated Mobile Work Platforms ...............................................54 Trained Forklift Operator Spells Safety & Efficiency....................................................56 Building/Workplace Checklist.....................................................................................59 Building/Workplace Audit ..........................................................................................62 Transport Vehicle Checklist.........................................................................................63

INTRODUCTION Ontario carries on agriculture more than any place in the world. Greenhouse farming in Ontario has continually grown over the years making our province a world-class player in the production of quality vegetables, flowers and tropical plants. It is important that the employer take as much care with keeping their employees safe and healthy as they do with maintaining the quality of their crops.. A well developed safety program and adequate employee training and orientation will keep things running smooth. No one wants down time before a major order is due to be shipped. No one wants the paperwork involved with accidents or injuries. No one wants to have a labour shortage at a critical time. When considering work environments, greenhouse agricultural operations do not have some of the worries other agricultural operations have due to the controlled nature of the growing areas. Rather, the confined nature of the greenhouses presents other health and safety issues unique to the greenhouse environment. This guide will assist you in maintaining a safe work environment in your greenhouses by pointing out areas where you can improve safety, show you how to set up a safety program and how to train your new employees as well as your more experienced staff.

Healthy Crops & Healthy Employees HEALTH AND SAFETY POLICY A policy statement by senior management is an effective way to communicate the organizations commitment to worker health and safety. Workplaces with exceptional health and safety records have established a clear line of responsibility for correcting health and safety concerns. This action enhances working relationships between management and labour. An employer should prepare and review at least annually a written occupational health and safety policy. A clear, concise policy statement should reflect managements commitment, support and attitude to the health and safety program for the protection of workers. The highest level of management at the workplace, thus indicating senior management commitment, should sign this statement. Make it a practice to communicate and explain your policy to all employees. Post a copy of your company safety policy in an area where it can serve as a visible reminder to all employees.

EXAMPLE OF A HEALTH AND SAFETY POLICY HEALTH AND SAFETY POLICY Management of ___________________________ is vitally interested in the health and safety of its employees. Protection of employees from injury or occupational disease is a major continuing objective. ______________________________________ will make every effort to provide a safe, health work environment. All supervisors and workers must be dedicated to the continuing objective of reducing risks of injury. ___________________________________, as employer, is ultimately responsible for worker health and safety. As President (or owner/operator, chairperson, chief executive officer, etc.) of ___________________________, I give you my personal promise that every reasonable precaution will be taken for the protection of workers. Supervisors will be held accountable for the health and safety of workers under their supervision. Supervisors are responsible to ensure that machinery and equipment are safe and that workers are in compliance with established safe work practices and procedures. Workers must receive adequate training in their specific work tasks to protect their health and safety. Every worker must protect his or her own health and safety by working in compliance with the law and with safe work practices and procedures established by the Company. It is in the best interest of all parties to consider health and safety in every activity. Commitment to health and safety must form and integral part of this organization from the President to the workers.

Signed:_______________________________ Date:____________________ President

WHAT IS DUE DILIGENCE? In the simplest form, due diligence means that you are working with care and showing that you care enough about your workplace and employees to know your responsibilities under the law and take all reasonable measures to carry them out. It is not static. You are always moving forward as laws and standards change to keep pace with them. You must be active in identifying hazards relating to specific work practices and implement specific preventative measures to protect employees from them. Due diligence can be an important legal defense . This is why you should have paperwork to back up all actions, training etc involving employees. There are more extensive and detailed outlines of due diligence available from professional organizations involved in safety education and enforcement. WHATS THE LAW? The laws governing the protection of workers against health and safety hazards on the job vary from province to province. In Ontario, the Occupational health and safety Act and regulations (administered and enforced by the Ministry of Labour) sets out the general principles and duties of the workplace parties for safety. However, farming operations, as it applies to primary agricultural production, are specifically exempt from the application of this Act, but certain non-agricultural activities or processes such as packaging or shipping product or selling product in a retail outlet of a farming operation do fall under this health and safety legislation.

It is best as an owner/manager to know where your operation stands with regard to the legislation by contacting your local Ministry of Labour or Farm Safety Association representative. THE LAW AS A GUIDELINE If your farming operation has a number of employees and various activities being carried on which could lead to injury, you may want to consider using the Occupational health and Safety Act as a guideline to making your operation a safe workplace.

WHAT DOES THE OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY ACT SAY? For those Ontario Workplaces under the Occupational Health and Safety Act, there are a number of requirements placed upon employers to ensure the safety of workers including: providing and maintaining a safe workplace, including equipment and protective devices; articulating a health and safety policy and developing a program to carry it out; protecting workers from dangerous situations; telling workers about any known hazard and providing training to work safely with the hazard.

The Act also requires supervisors to take every reasonable precaution to protect workers, including showing workers how to work safely and making sure that they do so. The Act requires workers to always work safely and not fool around, use all equipment safely, as demonstrated by the supervisor; and to report to the supervisor any hazard, dangerous situation or violation of the legislation..

Workers also have the right to know about hazards in the workplace and to be trained so work can be done safely. (The Workplace hazardous Materials Information System WHMIS is a major part of this.) They have the right to participate in the workplace health and safety system, and the right to refuse work that is believed to be unsafe. For more details or copies of the Occupational Health and Safety Act for Ontario, contact your nearest office of the Ministry of Labour. DO I NEED A HEALTH AND SAFETY COMMITTEE? What is a joint health and safety committee? A joint health and safety committee is composed of people who represent the employees and the employer. Together, they are committed to improving health and safety conditions in the workplace. Committees identify potential health and safety problems and bring them to the employers attention. As well, members must be kept informed of health and safety developments in the workplace. Which workplaces need joint health and safety committees? Workplaces that require committees include:  any workplace that regularly employs 20 or more workers  construction projects on which 20 or more workers are regularly employed and which are expected to last three months or more  any workplace (other than a construction project) to which a regulation concerning a designated substance applies, even if fewer that 20 workers are regularly employed  any workplace where an order had been issued under the Act, even if fewer that 20 workers are regularly employed  a workplace ordered to do so by the Ministry of Labour How large should a joint health and safety committee be? In workplaces with 20 to 49 employees, the Act requires that the committee have a minimum of two members. Where 50 or more workers are employed, the committee must have at least four members. At least half the members on a committee must represent workers with the balance representing management. Larger committees in larger workplaces can be required by regulations under the Act.

Whenever possible, committees should represent the health and safety concerns of the entire workplace. For example, if a workplace has a plant, office, laboratory and warehouse, each of these areas should be represented on the committee. What about workplaces with fewer than 20 employees? Usually, workplaces with more than five but fewer than 20 employees are not required to have a joint health and safety committee. Instead, workers must elect one employee as a health and safety representative. Workplaces with five or fewer employees are exempt from the requirements of the Act, which regulate joint health and safety committees, and from the requirement for a health and safety representative. Joint Health and Safety Committee Meetings It is important to keep a record of safety committee meetings as a part of due diligence. The minutes do not have to be complex but should include the following: . date and time of the meeting . names of those present . issues discussed . recommendations . person/group responsible for action pertinent documents such as inspection reports, accident statistics etc may be attached to the minutes. Minutes should be posted on appropriate bulletin boards so all employees have access to the information. Objectives of a Joint Health and Safety Committee 1. The study of injury and health statistics and trends so that reports can be made to management on unsafe and unhealthy conditions and practices, together with recommended corrective action. 2. Examination of safety and health audits on a similar basis as indicated in the first objective. 3. Consideration of reports provided by government and insurance inspectors. 4. Consideration of reports by safety representatives. 5. Assist management in the development of job site safety rules. 6. review the effectiveness of health and safety training of employees. 7. Review and assist in communication and promotion of health and safety matters in the workplace. 8. Carry out periodic safety and health audits to determine the effectiveness of programming.

Making Recommendations Generally speaking, concerns which do require a committee recommendation are: those for which there is no established corrective procedure where a request for corrective action brings no result where a problem involves a number of different departments and requires a change in procedure

For example: a mezzanine floor with no perimeter railing, not previously thought of as hazardous excessive welding fumes tolerated in the past, but now complained about recurrence of a housekeeping defect. The real problem could be a lack of proper storage facilities, poor methods of performing the job concerned a problem which relates to a lack of information or training for personnel

What to Include When Making a Recommendation Recommendations which relate to well defined problems and which are logical, supported by facts, and practical, are the ones most likely to be accepted by the employer. To do this the committee should: Define the problem, looking for underlying causes Assemble all necessary information Consider possible solutions

When considering solutions, the committee should look at the urgency and seriousness of the problem and practicality of the solution. Then there must be unanimous agreement and the recommendation then presented to management. The recommendation should include: the subject of the recommendation the date made the recommended time frame for action the recommendation, including any options the reasoning behind the recommendation time frame for response

The recommendation should be sent to the person in the company who has the necessary authority to take action.

WHAT ABOUT COMPENSATION COVERAGE FOR WORKERS? In Ontario, the Workplace Safety and Insurance Act requires all agricultural operations to have no-fault insurance coverage for their employees that is administered through the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board. This applies even if you hire someone for half a day! Its the law! WSIB coverage is also mandatory for contract workers hired through an employment agency, if the employment agency doesnt have coverage. Therefore it is very important that when you do utilize an outside employment agency to provide temporary seasonal workers, that you request a WSIB Clearance Certificate from the agency that certifies that the agency does have WSIB coverage for the temporary contract workers that they provide to you. The WSIB provides disability benefits, monitors the quality of health care, and assists in the early and safe return to work for workers who are injured on the job or contract an occupational disease. A worker who is entitled to compensation under this act may not take action in the courts against the employer for injury or disease sustained in the course of employment. Failure to register as an employer or report a workplace injury or occupational disease could result in fines and penalties. The WSIB benefits paid to injured workers are funded by the insurance premiums paid solely by the employer. It is an offence against the Act to require any contribution from employees. Every year the WSIB reviews the accident experience of all employers in the system for the purpose of setting premium rates. A base premium rate is set for each rate group, classified according to business activity. However, your individual premium rate may differ from your rate groups due to discounts/rebates earned or surcharges imposed based on your individual companys accident experience. Thus employers are encouraged to reduce or eliminate workplace injury and illness in order to reduce the cost of workplace insurance premiums. WSIB also oversees Ontarios workplace safety education and training system. A portion of the premiums paid by employers also fund assistance for both employers and workers. Employers can acquire free advice, information products, consultation and representation services from the office of the Employer Advisor (OEA). The Office of the Worker Advisor (OWA) offers non-union workers or their survivors free assistance with their workplace insurance cases. As well, WSIB provides major funding for 12 health and safety associations including the Farm Safety Association. These associations in turn, provide safety education and training to employees on a no fee basis. For more information about the WSIB, contact the Workplace Safety & Insurance Board, Agriculture Sector Office, Guelph, Ontario. Telephone: 1-888-259-4228.

FIRST AIDE IN THE WORKPLACE All employers covered by the Workplace Safety and Insurance Act are required to have first aid equipment, facilities, and trained personnel in all workplaces in accordance with Regulation 1101 of the Act. Copies of this regulation are available from the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board or the Farm Safety association Inc. First Aide Program suggestions: One First Aid Kit shall be located in each vehicle and a first aid station maintained at each greenhouse location. At least one employee trained in first aid treatment is present for the duration of work and his/her name is posted at the first aid station. An inventory of first aid supplies is made monthly and replenished as needed. A log is maintained at each First Aid Station recording the date of the inspection and who performed it. A record/log of all first aid treatment shall be kept, noting date, location, name of the person who used the kit to administer first aid and medical supplies used from the first aid kit. All injuries shall be reported to the supervisor. In the agricultural workplace, more than one individual should be trained to administer First Aid. Consider what would happen if the only person who knew First Aid was the injured party, or if there was more than one location! Definitions First Aid: Emergency care or treatment given to an injured person until medical help arrives. Medical Aid: Emergency care or treatment provided by a doctor, medical clinic or hospital, and for which the cost is covered by the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board.

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ACCIDENT INVESTIGATION PROCEDURE As Soon as possible after the accident, all information relative to the accident should be obtained and a conclusion reached concerning the causes. This requires a planned approach incorporating the following action sequence: 1. Prevent the removal of evidence or the change of conditions at the accident scene. The scene should be isolated and left undisturbed for the investigation. Photos should be taken as soon as possible to record conditions. If an imminent hazard exists that can cause further injury, it should be safely dealt with as soon as possible. 2. Determine the proper specified work procedure. The investigator should understand the approved procedures for the job in question. This helps to identify any changes from normal procedures which may have contributed to the accident. 3. Verify evidence of witnesses, and if possible, the injured employee. The injured employee and any witnesses should be interviewed as soon as possible following the accident while events are still fresh in their minds and their statements recorded. Those directly involved should be interviewed first, followed by others in the immediate vicinity. Before interviewing the injured worker, determine if it is medically permissible. Proper interview techniques are important and should do everything to put the injured worker at ease and remind them of the constructive purpose of the investigation. 4. Record results of special tests or re-enactments. Occasionally it is beneficial to reenact the accident or to test the machinery involved. Please ensure that another accident does not happen during the testing! 5. Review and select relevant facts and findings and establish cause or causes. Did the employee deviate from standard work procedures? What were their actions just prior to the accident? Was there a lack of training, knowledge, skill or awareness? Were there possible causes in the working environment? Were there defects with equipment or tools or unsafe conditions due to other workers or work being performed?

6. Recommend appropriate changes based on conclusions. Recommended changes should prevent the accident from recurring. Recommendations could be in the form of changes in operating procedures, equipment or the work environment. 7. Carry out the changes recommended to prevent a recurrence of the accident. There should be ongoing monitoring of changes to determine that they will prevent a recurring problem. The investigator should clearly state what is being recommended and give reasons in support of the recommendations.

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ACCIDENT INVESTIGATION CHECKLIST The following is a checklist of information to be gathered when you make your investigation. It is a good idea to keep a copy of this checklist in your accident investigation file and refer to it during the course of your investigation. WHO -Who was involved. Who is he/she? What were they doing at the time? Was it their job? Since when? Was he/she trained for it? -Who else was there? Who are they? What were they doing? -Who saw what happened? Who heard it? Who reported it? WHAT -What equipment was involved? What was it doing/being used for at the time? Was this normal use? -What was the condition of the equipment? (use/abuse, maintenance) Was this a usual condition? Was it properly guarded? -What materials were involved? What were they being used for? Was this a proper use for them? -What known hazards do they have? If hazards exist, were the materials being used properly? WHERE -Where in the operation did the accident happen? -What was the environment/layout like? -What was the condition of the workplace ( floor, housekeeping, traffic, lighting, noise, distractions, temperature etc.) -Where did it occur in the flow of operations? WHEN -When was it reported? When did it occur in the working day? On what day/date? HOW -How did it happen? Howe can you be sure? Can you use the answers to these questions to produce a detailed description? -Are the answers clear enough? -Do you need to repeat or rephrase any questions? -Do you need to ask more questions? WHY -Evolves from all of these questions.

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SUGGESTIONS FOR DEVELOPING EMPLOYEE TRAINING PROGRAMS An employee who knows their job well and all of the hazards and safety precautions will be a more productive person. It is imperative that you have a written plan for training and orienting new workers. The plan should be applied consistently to all new employees. Examine your operation and prepare a list of all the jobs that require employees, full or part-time. For each job, develop a written job description which will include the major tasks that are performed in the course of their duties. This may not be practical in small operations with only a few employees. Each major job task identified should also identify possible hazards in that job and protective equipment that may be required. This will allow you to look at what type of instruction will be necessary as part of your training program. Portions of your operation may come under Provincial or federal health and Safety Legislation. You will need to examine RIGHT TO KNOW legislation and incorporate it into your training program. This could include WHMIS ( Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System), Occupational Health and Safety Act, Transportation of Dangerous Goods etc. When training needs have been identified, a program of instruction, even in point form, should be identified. A written set of company safety rules, as well as terms of employment and conduct at work should be discussed with all new workers. Set up a written format to document all training given to each individual and have that person sign or indicate that they have received the training. Training should be reviewed with employees on a regular basis. Even long time employees need a refresher course.

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Every time that there is a transfer of employees from one area to another, or one job to another, training should occur. Accidents have occurred in operations when people were transferred to new jobs, due to shortages of manpower, without proper instruction. The results have often been tragic.

A NEW EMPLOYEE UNFAMILIAR WITH A MACHINE OR PROCESS MUST RECEIVE INSTRUCTION. Remind supervisors of their responsibility.

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CHECKLIST FOR NEW EMPLOYEES\EMPLOYEES IN NEW POSITIONS The following is a partial checklist which can be used as a part of your new employee indoctrination: Check off items as you discuss each with the new employee. ___ Where to park their vehicle ___ Where to keep personal belongings while at work (lunch, clothes, tools , etc) ___ Tour of department and facilities (discuss hazards) ___ How to handle unsafe conditions, reporting them. ___ What to do in the event of a non-injury accident. ___ Location of first aid or medical facilities ___ Review general safety rules and the reason for each ___ Review specific safety rules (i.e. smoking, specific materials handling) applicable in our department, including the reasons for each rule. ___ Review disciplinary action ___ Personal protective equipment required, issued and why ___ Procedure for obtaining and caring for personal protective equipment ___ Location of fire exit and marshalling area, test of warning signals ___ Safe re-entry times for sprayed areas ( greenhouses, growing areas) ___ Special clean-up rules ( with attention to personal hygiene) ___ Clean-up rules ( general housekeeping) ___ WHMIS Training on hazardous materials handling ___ Rules regarding lunch and break periods Employee name: ______________________ Signature: _____________________ Discussed by: _________________________ Date: _________________________ 15

WORKPLACE INSPECTIONS The primary purpose of a workplace inspection is to identify unsafe conditions and unsafe acts before an accident can occur and to correct or remove these hazards. Inspections can be routine daily checks of equipment, personal protective equipment, tools, etc. or a more formal type of inspection conducted by an inspection team consisting of management and workers. Who should conduct workplace inspections? The inspection should be a joint effort, with management, supervisors and workers involved. Each person may have a different point of view that can contribute to the inspection. A worker will be more familiar with operation of certain machines etc. It may be wise to rotate teams of people for inspections. Sometimes a second pair of eyes may spot something that was overlooked the first time. Conducting the inspection. When doing an inspection, certain basic principles should be considered. Estimate the optimum required time to complete the inspection. Too short a time is as bad as too long a time. There should be a pre-inspection briefing for the team to clarify duties, distribute necessary information and to clear up questions. Try not to unnecessarily disrupt work activities. Ask only questions that are required to complete the inspection. Do not attach any blame for hazards observed. Attention should be drawn to immediate dangers. Others of a more minor nature can be included in the report.

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Recording observations. There are no regulations requiring that a particular inspection for be used. You can design a form specific for your location. You should be able to record observations, to make recommendations and to ensure that corrective action is taken. You should have a reporting and action procedure in place so that items can be dealt with. Responsibilities should be delegated to employees at various levels so that corrective actions can be taken.

The Farm Safety Association has developed the Agricultural Safety Audit Program (ASAP) to assist employers in carrying out workplace inspections. These can be obtained from the FSA.

BOILER SAFETY IN GREENHOUSES The safety operation of boilers in the greenhouse comes under the authority of the Technical Standards and Safety Authority under the Technical Standards and Safety Act 2000. This authority operates under the authority of the Ministry of Consumer and Business Services. The TSSA has developed a Boiler Safety Course for the Agriculture Sector. The course is designed for those persons in agriculture that are responsible for, operate, maintain steam and/or hot water boilers. Persons in possession of current Operating (Stationary) Engineer certificates are exempt from taking the course, however since safety is of great importance, the course as a review would be very beneficial. 17

An EMERGENCY ACTION PLAN You should develop an emergency action plan that prepares employees for various types of disaster. Everyone should know what their responsibilities are. Your plan should include: Emergency escape procedures Escape routes from each section of the operation Who to call in emergencies/ posted numbers for fire, ambulance, environment, police etc Procedures to shut down critical operations such as boilers, power etc. Accounting for all personnel after evacuation Who performs rescue and medical aid before outside help arrives How will employees be notified of emergencies- alarms, announcement, sirens? Training of all employees including mock emergencies and evacuations Location of all emergency equipment must be made known and well marked such as fire extinguishers, first aid, power shut off etc. Note: In the event of an extended power failure, it is important to shut down equipment immediately if emergency power is not available. If power comes back at a much later time when no one is around, machinery, heaters etc could start up and cause major problems.

EMERGENCY LIGHTING Areas where personal safety would be at risk in a power failure should be equipped with emergency lighting. Nothing is worse than having people tripping over objects in the dark.

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Emergency lighting and power generators should be checked monthly to ensure that they are working correctly.

FIRE PROTECTION You should develop an emergency plan for fire and post it in all workplaces. Consider holding regular fire drills and evacuations for employees. Choose the appropriate type of fire extinguisher for specific areas. Ensure that there are adequate numbers of extinguishers and they are visible and well marked. Inspect the extinguishers monthly to ensure they are ready for use and fully charged. Make sure each area had adequate exits to allow prompt escape. Equip exits with emergency lighting where required. Have your local fire department assist you in developing a disaster plan.

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HOUSEKEEPING AND SAFETY Effective house keeping can eliminate some workplace hazard and help get a job done easily and properly. Poor housekeeping can frequently contribute to accidents by hiding hazards that can cause injuries. A good housekeeping program plans and manages the orderly storage and movement of materials from point of entry to exit. It includes a material flow plan to ensure minimal handling. Worker training is an essential plan of any good housekeeping program. Workers need to know how to protect other workers such a posting signs and reporting any unusual conditions. The final addition to any housekeeping program is inspection. It is the only way to check for deficiencies in the program so that changes can be made. Do not block entrances and exits, signs, or fire extinguishers from view. Clean up oils and spills on floors immediately. Maintain floors free of debris and accumulations of dust. Areas that can not be cleaned continuously, such as entranceways should have anti-slip flooring. Replace any worn, ripped or damaged flooring that poses a tripping hazard. Repair all trap doors and railings.

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All building and yard should be adequately lighted. Light fixtures should be free of dirt as dirty light fixtures reduce essential light levels. Clean light fixtures can improve lighting efficiency significantly Light fixtures in storage areas containing combustible materials should be protected against breaking (i.e. explosion proof fixtures)

Aisles and stairways should be clearly marked and kept clear of objects that can cause trips and falls. Aisles should be wide enough to accommodate people and vehicles comfortable and safely. Warning signs and mirrors can improve sight lines in blind corner. Properly arrange aisle encourage people to use them so that they do not take shortcuts or bottleneck storage. Stairways and aisles also require adequate lighting. The best way to control spills is to stop them before they happen. Regularly cleaning and maintaining machines and equipment is one way to; another is to use drip pans and guards where possible spills might occur. When spill do occur, it is important to follow cleanup procedures as indicated on the Material Safety Data Sheet. Maintenance involves keeping buildings, equipment and machinery in safe efficient working order and in good repair. This includes maintaining sanitary facilities and regularly painting and cleaning walls, maintaining windows, damaged doors, defective plumbing and broken floor surfaces. The regular collection, grading and sorting of scrap contributes to good house keeping practices. Allowing materials to build up on the floor wastes time and energy since additional time is required for cleaning it up. Placing scrap containers near where the waste is produce encourages orderly waste disposal and makes collection easier. All waste receptacles should be clearly labeled (e.g., recyclable glass, plastic, metal toxic and flammable etc.) All waste containers should be emptied regularly. Stored materials should not be obstruct aisles, stairs, exits, fire equipment, emergency eyewash fountains, emergency showers, or first aid stations.

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Proper ergonomic seating is required rather than the makeshift seating shown above. ERGONOMICS AND YOUR EMPLOYEES Many of the jobs in your operation require workers to do a lot of repetitive tasks. You may want to arrange job tasks so that no group of persons is continually doing the same work requiring repetitive motions for the whole shift. The use of a professional ergonomics expert can assist you in developing a plan. Proper positioning of the employee with equipment or processes can prevent repetitive strain injuries. PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT Employees should be instructed in what personal protective equipment is needed in various job situations. Most employees will provide their own protective non-slip footwear. Other items such as eye protections, hearing protection etc may be provided by the employer where needed. Employees should be encouraged not to wear jewellery, watches and other items that may interfere with the work or become a safety hazard. Where machinery is involved, loose clothing or hair would be unacceptable. HANDLING BROKEN GLASS Many greenhouses still have a considerable amount of glass in them as opposed to plastics. Handling glass should only be done by maintenance crews or other designated individuals. Appropriate protective equipment should be worn and may include safety goggles, proper footwear and gloves. Broken glass is extremely sharp and dangerous. Cleaning up will involve more than picking up the big pieces because many tiny slivers may not be visible to your eyes. Thorough sweeping and vacuuming may be necessary to get all the pieces. Working with large pieces of glass when there is wind can be very dangerous. Avoid this if possible.

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HANDLING WASTE LIGHT BULBS There are all sorts of lighting systems used by greenhouses to light growing areas, shipping areas, offices and lunchrooms. Many of the light bulbs in your operation could contain hazardous materials and should be disposed of according to manufacturers recommendations or according to environmental regulations for your local municipality and landfill. Some light bulbs may contain sodium, mercury and even lead. Mercury is a hazardous material and can cause harm to humans and the environment if disposed of improperly. You should obtain the Material Safety data Sheets for the products that you use in your greenhouse operation which will outline possible disposal techniques.

RETAIL OPERATION & SAFETY Many greenhouse operations have decided to open retail outlets attached to the growing operation. There are a number of points you need to consider for the safety of your employees and the general public. Review the interior layout of the store and design it with safety in mind, eliminating potential hazards. Housekeeping should aim to prevent congestion in the aisles, slippery floors, sharp edges and projections. Make sure that all areas are lighted adequately.

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In winter, icy sidewalks and parking lots are potential hazards for injury salt and sand. Keep customers and children out of employee only areas. Examine the condition of floor mats, doors and exits. Consider the customers in wheelchairs- is there adequate access and are aisles wide enough? Heavier products should always be stored on lower shelves and do not overload retail shelves. Avoid leaving hoses and electrical cords in areas where people may trip over them. Wipe up wet areas immediately to prevent slips and falls. EMPLOYEE FACILITIES Lunch rooms, offices, washrooms etc should be just as organized as the rest of your operation. Accidents can happen here too.

Ensure that all employees follow proper hand washing techniques before lunch as well as after using washrooms. This should be mandatory and is critical in greenhouses where food products are grown and handled, such as peppers and tomatoes. Lunch areas should not be located where chemical drift can contaminate the area. Washup facilities and washrooms should be located in convenient areas throughout the facility to prevent employees having to travel great distances. Employees should clean up their own garbage and ensure that cigarettes are butted out properly.

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PROPER HAND WASHING Employees should be familiar with proper hand washing techniques. Steps in proper hand washing include: Wetting your hands with running water. Applying soap from a dispenser. Rubbing the hands together for 20 seconds. Cleaning under the finger nails and between the fingers. Rinsing the hands thoroughly under running water. Drying the hands with individual-use paper towels or a hand dryer. To help keep hands clean, fingernails should be kept short and artificial nails should not be allowed. Employees handling food products must wear gloves if they have sores , scratches or open cuts on their hands.

SAFETY IN STORAGE AREAS Avoid stacking materials too high. Just because you have all that vertical space doesnt mean you have to use it. Install proper storage shelves or areas if you must go high. Storage areas with several levels should have any access stairs with appropriate railings and the upper levels should have railings as well as toe guards to prevent items from falling over the edge. Any area free of natural light should have appropriate lighting systems in place.

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Where forklifts and other devices are used frequently, marked, safe walkways should be indicated for employees.

WHMIS WORKPLACE HAZARDOUS MATERIALS INFORMATION SYSTEM The initials WHMIS (pronounced whim-iss) stands for the Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System. WHMIS is a Canada-wide system implemented to protect the health and safety of workers through the provision of information and education about hazardous products that they may use or be in contact with in the workplace. In Ontario, workers have always had the right to know about toxic materials in the workplace under the Occupational health and Safety Act. This right was significantly expanded when the act was amended in 1988 to implement WHMIS. Since WHMIS is administered under this act, farm operations that are exempt under the Act are also exempt from WHMIS. We suggest that you contact your local Ministry of Labour office to determine whether or not your firm must comply with the 1988 legislation. There are three components to WHMIS ! labels and labeling ! Material Safety Data Sheets (M.S.D.S.) ! worker education and training Information and instruction about WHMIS must be provided to all workers who work with, or who are in proximity to, a hazardous product. A worker who works with a hazardous product is anyone who stores, handles, uses or disposes of the product or who immediately supervises another worker performing these duties.

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In proximity means, in the area in which worker health and safety could be at risk during use, storage, disposal, maintenance or during emergencies. In Ontario, WHMIS has been implemented through the Occupational Health and Safety Act. We suggest that you contact the Ministry of Labour office in your area to determine whether or not your firm must comply with the 1988 legislation. Certain agricultural operations are exempt from the Act and from WHMIS. The Farm Safety Association Inc. can assist you in meeting your WHMIS obligations and training.

WHAT DO THE WHMIS HAZARD SYMBOLS MEAN? Class A Compressed Gas Tie the container so it is standing up for storage and moving Keep the cap on when storing the container Never move a container with a regulator on it Dont drop, drag, roll or puncture any container that has this symbol Dont smoke. Keep away from heat and sparks Dont use grease or oil on any valve on the container It could cause an explosion

A container with this symbol can explode and take off like a rocket!

Class B Flammable and Combustible Material Keep away from sources of heat and flame Keep this chemical in tightly closed containers; dispose spill clean up materials in safe metal containers Dont smoke anywhere near these materials Do not store anywhere near OXIDIZING or REACTIVE chemicals A material with this symbol can burst into flames very suddenly.

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Class C Oxidizing Material Keep away from FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE materials Keep away from heat and fire Dont smoke anywhere near these materials Dont store it beside REACTIVE chemicals Chemicals in a container with this symbol will feed oxygen into any fire, making it larger and hotter. Class D1A/B Immediately Poisonous Material Be sure there is good ventilation Wash your hands after touching these chemicals and before you eat, drink or smoke Always wear the right protective equipment such as safety glasses, gloves and mask Never wear work clothes home you could spread the harm A chemical with this symbol will cause immediate and serious poisoning. Class D2A/B Material Causing Other Toxic Effects Use only in a well ventilated area Wash your hands after touching these chemicals and before you eat, drink or smoke Always wear the right protective equipment such as safety glasses, gloves and mask Never wear work clothes home you could spread the harm A chemical with this symbol can cause slow poisoning and long-term illnesses

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Class D3 Biohazardous Infectious Material Ask your supervisor before touching anything with this symbol Wash your hands after touching these chemicals and before you eat, drink or smoke Always wear the right protective equipment such as safety glasses, gloves and mask Never wear work clothes home you could spread the harm A material with this symbol can give you a serious disease. Class E Corrosive Material Be sure there is good ventilation fumes could burn your nose, throat and lungs Always wear the right protective equipment such as safety glasses, gloves and mask Wash your hands after touching these chemicals and before you eat, drink or smoke Wash your skin or eyes for at least 15 minutes if you spill this kind of chemical on them Never wear work clothes home you could spread the harm

A chemical with this symbol can seriously harm your eyes and your skin.

Class F Dangerously Reactive Material Keep away from any source of heat Get rid of old chemicals. This material can become very dangerous as it gets older Dont drop! Handle with great care! Dont mix with other chemicals, even water Dont smoke around these chemicals

A chemical with this symbol may EXPLODE if handled roughly. 29

What Other Hazard Symbols are there? In addition to WHMIS symbols, there is another group of CONSUMER WARNING LABEL SYMBOLS. These appear on consumer products found on store shelves when the product contains harmful or hazardous contents. Consumer Warning Labels are very similar to WHMIS symbols, but are framed in shapes that look like road signs: The Stop Sign shape is used to alert you to the highest level of warning The Upside Down Triangle looks like a yield sign and alerts you to use caution when handling products labeled with this shape CORROSIVE Causes skin and eye burns Do not breathe fumes Wear gloves and eye protection Keep containers sealed May damage metals

PRESSURIZED CONTAINER Handle container with care May explode if heated or dropped May react violently with other materials Keep away from heat sources FLAMMABLE Fire hazard Will ignite if exposed to a spark or flame Store away from heat Use in a ventilated area Potentially fatal if inhaled or swallowed May have serious long-term effect Wear gloves and a face mask Wash your hands after using the product (No Standard Symbol Currently Used)

TOXIC

QUICK SKIN BONDING ADHSIVES

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PESTICIDE STORAGE AND TRANSPORTATION The Pesticides Act is administered by the Ontario Ministry of the Environment. Following is a brief synopsis of requirements for storage and transportation of pesticides. Transportation: Never leave pesticides unattended in a parked vehicle unless it is locked or parked in an area to which public access is denied. A sign indicating Chemical Storage Warning Authorized Persons Only must be displayed on unattended parked vehicles containing pesticides. Vehicles transporting more than 500 litres of pesticides must be placarded with a chemical warning sign at all times.

Storage: Pesticides must be stored in an area exclusive for this purpose to prevent cross contamination. Pesticides and adjuvants (e.g. emulsifiers, diluents etc) are the only items to be stored in this building, room etc. If the storage area is to ever be used for other purposes, it must be decontaminated Insecticides, herbicides and fungicides should be stored separately from each other. Storage must be ventilated to the outside. Chemical storage warning sign must be placed on the door to the area. The storage must be lockable and access controlled to authorized persons only. There will be no floor drains except to a separate holding area that can be pumped out. Such spills must be disposed of according to regulations. Protective clothing must be available to handlers, stored in a separate area. Emergency phone numbers must be posted for doctor, poison control, MOE etc. Absorbent material should be available for spills. Storage areas must be cool and dry to prevent product breakdown/activation. Pesticides must be stored in original containers, labeled. New storage facilities should be built away from watercourses, wells etc. Wash-up facilities with adequate supplies of soap and water should be available. MOE must be notified of spills or fire where environment could be affected. Only trained personnel with adequate protective equipment should clean up spills.

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LOCKOUT Most people immediately think of electricity as a potentially hazardous energy source, but there are other sources of energy, though, that can be just as hazardous. These energy sources include thermal, chemical, pneumatic, hydraulic, mechanical, and gravity. It is important to remember that all sources of energy have the potential to unexpectedly start-up, energize, or release must be identified and locked, blocked, or released before servicing or maintenance is performed on machinery or equipment. Pre-planning for a lockout. An initial survey should be made to determine which switches, valves, or other energy isolating devices apply to the equipment being locked out. More than one energy source (electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, chemical, thermal, or others) may be involved. Any questionable identification of sources must be cleared by the employees with their supervisors. Energy isolating devices must be operated only by trained individuals

All energy isolating devices must be adequately labeled or marked to indicate their function. The identification includes the following: Equipment supplied Energy type and magnitude Where system complexity requires, a written sequence in checklist form should be prepared for equipment access, lockout/tagout, clearance, release, and start-up.

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LOCKOUT/TAGOUT PROCEDURES. Preparation. Notify all affected employees that a lockout is required and the reason therefore.

Machine or equipment shut down. If the equipment is operating, shut it down by the normal stopping procedure (depress stop button, open toggle switch, etc.). Disconnect switches should never be pulled while under load, because of the possibility of arcing or even explosion. Personnel knowledgeable of equipment operation should be involved with shut down or re-start procedures.

Machine or equipment isolation Operate the switch, valve, or other energy-isolating device so that the energy source(s) (electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, etc.) is (are) disconnected or isolated from the equipment. Stored energy, such as that in capacitors, springs, elevated machine members, rotating flywheels, hydraulic systems, and air, gas, steam, or water pressure, etc., must also be dissipated, disconnected, or restrained by methods such as grounding, repositioning, blocking, bleeding-down, etc.

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Pulling fuses is not a substitute for locking out. A yanked fuse is no guarantee the circuit is dead, and even if it was dead, there's nothing to stop someone from unthinkingly replacing the fuse. Caution: Intermittently operating equipment such as pumps, blowers, fans, and compressors may seem harmless when dormant. Don't assume that because equipment isn't functioning, it will stay that way.

Application of lockout Lockout and tag the energy isolating device with an assigned individual lock, even though someone may have locked the control before you. You will not be protected unless you put your own padlock on it. . Both locks and tags must clearly indicate the identity of the employee who applied the device. This provides positive identification as to who is servicing the machinery and equipment. The identification will also indicate who may not have finished working in a multiple lockout situation. The locks and tags must be durable enough to withstand the environment in which they will be used. Information on the locks and tags must remain legible. Locks must be substantial enough to prevent removal without the use of excessive force. Tags must be substantial enough to prevent accidental or inadvertent removal.

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Both locks and tags are to be standardized by either color, shape, or size. Tags must have a standard print and format. For some equipment it may be necessary to construct attachments to which locks can be applied. An example is a common hasp to cover an operating button. Tags must be attached to the energy isolating device(s) and to the normal operating control and must be attached in such a manner as to preclude operation.

Verification of Isolation After ensuring that no personnel can be exposed and as a check on having disconnected the energy sources, operate the push button or other normal operating controls to make certain the equipment will not operate. If there is a possibility of re-accumulation of stored energy to a hazardous level, verification of isolation must be continued until the maintenance or repair is completed, or until the possibility of such accumulation no longer exists. Caution: Return operating controls to neutral position after the test. A check of system activation (e.g. use of voltmeter for electrical circuits) should be performed to assure isolation. The equipment is now locked out.

Lockout interruption In situations where the energy isolating device(s) is locked/tagged and there is a need for testing or positioning of the equipment/process, the following sequence applies: Clear equipment/process of tools and materials. Clear personnel. Clear the control of locks/tags according to established procedure. Proceed with test, etc. De-energize all systems and re-lock/re-tag the controls to continue the work.

Release from lockout

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Before lockout devices are removed and energy is restored to the machine or equipment, inspect the work area to ensure that non-essential items have been removed and to ensure that machine or equipment components are operationally intact. Check work areas to ensure that all employees are in the clear. Notify affected employees that lockout devices have been removed.

Each lockout device must be removed from each energy-isolating device by the employee who applied the device. The energy isolating devices may be breakers, to restore energy to equipment. opened or closed, i.e., circuit gas is a potential bomb when charged only with oil Procedure involving more than one person In the preceding steps, if more than one individual is required to lock out equipment, each individual must place a personal lock and tag on the group lockout device when he/she begins work, and must remove those devices when he/she stops working on the machine or equipment. GENERAL LOCKOUT RECOMENDTIONS WHEN SERVICING MACHINES Disengage the power and stop the machine before servicing. Do not clean unplug lubricate, adjust or repair any machine while it is running, unless it is specifically recommended in the service or owners manual. Lock out the ignition and put a warning sign over the ignition that tells everyone that you are working on the machine. Engaged safety locks if the hydraulic cylinders are so equipped.

LOCKOUT FOR HYDRAULIC SYSTEMS Always follow instructions in operators manual for servicing hydraulic systems. Shut off the engine, which powers the hydraulic pump. Lower implement to the ground or onto a solid support Move the hydraulic lever back and forth several times to relieve pressure.

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Make sure pneumatic accumulators are properly charged with the proper inert gas. A pneumatic accumulator without .

POWER TOOLS LOCKOUT Before making adjustments or changing bits, disconnect the power cord or you could accidentally touch the switch and be injured when the tool starts.

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SAFE LIFTING AND CARRYING TECHNIQUES Improper lifting techniques are responsible for a large percentage of back injuries among agricultural workers. Proper methods of lifting and handling protect against injury, and make work easier. You need to think about what you are going to do before bending to pick up an object. Over time, safe lifting technique should become a habit.

Following are the basics steps of safe lifting and handling. Size up the load and check overall conditions. Dont attempt the lift by yourself if the load appears to be too heavy or awkward. Check that there is enough space for movement, and that the footing is good. Good housekeeping ensures that you wont trip or stumble over an obstacle. Make certain that your balance is good. Feet should be shoulder width apart, with one foot beside and the other foot behind the object that is to be lifted.

Bend the knees; dont stoop. Keep the back straight, but not vertical. (There is a difference. Tucking in the chin straightens the back.) Grip the load with the palms of your hands and your fingers. The palm grip is much more secure. Tuck in the chin again to make certain your back is straight before starting to lift. Use your body weight to start the load moving, then lift by pushing up with the legs. This makes full use of the strongest set of muscles. Keep the arms and elbows close to the body while lifting.

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Carry the load close to the body. Dont twist your body while carrying the load. To change direction, shift your foot position and turn your whole body. Watch where you are going! To lower the object, bend the knees. Dont stoop. To deposit the load on a bench or shelf, place it on the edge and push it into position. Make sure your hands and feet are clear when placing the load. Make it a habit to follow the above steps when lifting anything--even a relatively light object. Team lifting must be coordinated If the weight, shape, or size of an object makes the job too much for one person, ask for help. Ideally, workers should be of approximately the same size for team lifting. One individual needs to be responsible for control of the action to ensure proper co-ordination. If one worker lifts too soon, shifts the load, or lowers it improperly, either they or the person working with them may be injured. Lifting heavy objects Safe lifting of heavy items requires training and practice. For example, weve probably all seen a small person move heavy feed sacks with apparent ease. The secret lies in taking the proper stance and grip. When equipment is available, it should be used to lift and carry heavy objects. Loaders, forklifts, hoists, etc. are made for this purpose.

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PREVENTING SLIPS AND FALLS Be aware of the danger Slipping on an icy surface or tripping over some objects stacked in a walkway can have serious consequences. In fact, a substantial number of farm workplace injuries--and even some fatalities--have resulted from what we might think of as a simple fall. Following are some examples that we can all relate to: Its the end of a long day in the field. The tractor driver shuts down his machine, then jumps from the platform to the ground. He twists his ankle upon landing, and is on crutches for several days. An oil slick remains on the shop floor following repairs to a tractors hydraulic system. No one takes the time to cover it with sand or cat litter, or clean it up. A worker slips on the slick surface, and gashes his forehead on the edge of an adjacent work bench. Freezing rain has knocked out the main power grid. A farmer is using a PTO generator to provide lighting. While checking on the equipment, he slips on a patch of ice and falls onto the PTO shaft, with fatal results. These are the kinds of incidents that could easily happen in just about any farm workplace. Management definitely has a responsibility to eliminate slip and trip hazards to the greatest extent possible. Workers need to adopt habits that will reduce their chances of being injured in a fall. 1. Learn to recognize potential slip and trip hazards. 2. Take steps to eliminate the hazards. Check with your supervisor if you come across something that you feel could be a threat to sound footing. 3. Stay alert, and think about your actions--remember to look before you leap! Hazard elimination Keep all aisles and walkways free of clutter and debris. Follow the principle of, a place for everything, and everything in its place. Clean up oil spills and other slippery materials immediately. Set aside a few minutes to put tools away and clean up debris at the end of the day. Work is more efficient and enjoyable in a clean, well organized environment. Install guard rails around clean-out openings in multi-floored buildings. 40

 Spread sand and/or salt on icy surfaces if work has to be done in the vicinity. If the

weather is particularly bad, consider putting the job off until conditions improve. Keep steps and platforms of tractors and other equipment clean and dry. Take the time to clean off mud, ice, snow, manure, grease, and other debris that can accumulate on these surfaces. Dont carry tools, chains, etc. on the platform. Slip-resistant safety footwear is a must for all workers. The above are but a few examples of good housekeeping practices that should be followed to minimize slip and trip hazards. You can probably think of several others. It is really important to develop an awareness of potential hazards, and take the necessary steps to eliminate them before someone gets hurt. Take extra care around machinery Slips, trips and falls around farm equipment can have fatal consequences. Weve already stressed the importance of keeping steps and platforms clean. Here are some additional points to consider when working with machinery.

Never jump from a tractor. There is always the danger of catching clothing on pedals,

lever, or other protruding parts. You could land on an uneven surface and injure your ankles, legs, or back. Always use handrails, handholds, and steps to mount or dismount tractors and selfpropelled equipment. Follow the 3-point system--either two hands and one foot, or one hand and two feet on the machine at all times. Never try to operate equipment from any position other than the seat! Maintain safe operating speeds, and take a break when you are tired. Never allow passengers to ride along! They are much more likely to fall from a moving machine. Always shut the power off and pocket the key before making repairs and adjustments. That way, if someone does fall onto the equipment, they wont become entangled. Take extra care when operating stationary equipment (grain augers, generators, grinder-mixers, etc.) Stay well clear of the machinery while it is running. Try to maintain good footing in the surrounding area.

Think, then act Most falls are needless and preventable accidents. You need to be alert on the job, and develop awareness of what could constitute a slip and trip hazard. It is vital to THINK about actions before you take them. That way, youll be more likely to recognize hazards, and take the steps necessary to eliminate or avoid them.

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SAFE USE OF LADDERS Accidents involving ladders are common in the workplace because this tool is often used improperly. Following are some guidelines and requirements for the safe use of portable ladders in the greenhouse. Some of the common causes of ladder accidents include: Over-reaching from ladders, rather than moving them. Standing ladders on other objects to gain additional height. Too much of a hurry in climbing or descending. Climbing one-handed while carrying something in the other hand. Standing at the very top of a short ladder, rather than getting a longer one for the job. Hanging tools from ladder rungs, or leaving tools on the top of the stepladder. Throwing tools to a fellow worker on a ladder. Placing the ladder at an improper angle. Using metal ladders in locations where contact with electric wires may occur. Using worn or damaged ladders. Failure to secure (tie) the ladder in place. Metal ladders should never be used for electrical work and they should always be kept clear of overhead power lines and electrical circuits when used for other projects. The use of metal ladders should be avoided when there is a possibility that they will be used around electricity, even inadvertently. Wooden ladders with metal reinforcing rods shall not be used for electrical work, due to the danger of inadvertent electrical contact. Ladder Inspections Ladders should be inspected prior to use for loose or damaged rungs, steps, rails or braces. Ensure that stepladder spreaders are sturdy and can be locked in place. Check ladder rungs to be sure that they are free of any slippery material. Check ropes and pulleys, etc., on extension ladders for lubrication and good repair. Ensure that the steps are three and one half (3 1/2) inches or more on stepladders. The feet of ladders, especially straight ladders, should be equipped with slip-resistant surfaces. 42

Reject a ladder with defects. Ladders found to be defective should be taken out of service and tagged with a "Condemned - Do Not Use" tag. Proper Ladder Use The ladder should be long enough for the job and should project at least three (3) feet (90 cm) above the level of the point of support. Wooden ladders should not be painted, since this may hide serious defects that may develop. A wood preservative or clear finish should be used to protect the ladder. Use a straight ladder, not a stepladder if the work task required that you need to reach a height in excess of twenty (20) feet. Place the ladder on a solid, firm, flat surface. The feet of extension or stepladders should be level. A board may be necessary to ensure that it's level or to prevent it from sinking into soft ground. Keep the area around the base of the ladder uncluttered. When you use a stepladder, make certain that it's fully open and that its spreader is locked securely. Both railings of the top section of a straight ladder must be resting on a firm support. Ladders should be firmly secured or "tied-off" at the top before anyone works with power equipment from the ladder. Use the "4 to 1" rule with straight ladders. This simply means that the ladder should be placed (1) foot away from the base for every four (4) feet in height to the place where the top of the ladder rests. Always make sure that a ladder is not placed in front of a door that opens toward the ladder unless the door is blocked, locked or guarded. When using a ladder for access to high places, always securely "tie-off" the ladder to prevent it from slipping. Do not place a ladder close to, or against pipes containing acid, chemicals, sprinkling systems, etc.; Obtain assistance when handling a heavy or long ladder. When a ladder is used to climb onto a platform or roof make certain that it extends at least three feet above the platform or roof edge contact point. NEVER stand on the top two (2) rungs of ladders and NEVER stand on the top step or platform of a ladder. NEVER place a ladder against an unstable surface. Make sure that the locking device is fully secured on extension ladders before using them. Unless a ladder is designed for additional weight, only one (1) person should be on the ladder. Go up and down a ladder facing the ladder, taking only one (1) step at a time. Hold the side rails with both hands when climbing up or down a ladder. Do not hold on to the rungs when going up or down a ladder. NEVER climb a ladder "one-handed" while carrying something in the other hand. Use a hand line to raise or lower large objects, tools, etc. Keep your body centered between the rails of the ladder and NEVER over-reach when working on ladders.

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Before using a ladder always check your shoe soles and ladder rungs (or steps) to ensure that they are free of any slippery material (grease, oil, paint, snow, ice, etc.). Do not attempt to reach too high as you may lose your balance. Do not use step-ladders or straight ladders horizontally for platforms or scaffolds. Transport ladders with the feet to the rear and the top of the ladder higher than anyone in front of you. Wet wood ladders conduct electricity and should not be used when working on, with or around electrical equipment or electrical power sources. NEVER "walk" a stepladder while standing on it. NEVER use makeshift items such as a chair, barrel or box, etc., as a substitute ladder. NEVER place a ladder against a window pane or sash. Fasten a board (do not use nails) across the top of the ladder to give a bearing surface at each side of the window. NEVER slide down the side rails of ladders. NEVER use ladders during strong winds or storms except in emergencies, and then only; when they are securely "tied-off". Ladder Maintenance Ladders should be inspected once every three (3) months and a record of said inspections should be kept on file for future reference. Untreated wooden ladders should be stored in dry areas to prevent moisture or water absorption. When transported on a vehicle, ladders should be properly secured and supported. Ladders constructed from fiber glass should be cleaned and sprayed lightly with a clear or pigmented lacquer or paste wax once every three (3) months. Check all ladder hardware, nuts, bolts, spreaders, etc. for tightness and good repair. Examine and replace worn or frayed ropes or extension ladders. Do not attempt to straighten, or allow to remain in use, a bent or bowed ladder. DANGERS OF HEAT STRESS Heat stress needs to be taken seriously Working in a hot environment puts stress on the bodys cooling system. When heat is combined with other stresses--like hard physical work, loss of fluids, or fatigue--it may lead to heat-related illness, disability, or even death! The body is always generating heat and passing it to the environment. The harder you work, the more heat your body has to lose. Heat leaves your body in several ways: transfer from skin to air. evaporation by perspiration. exhaling hot air. touching a cool object. 44

Individuals over age-40 need to take extra care when the weather is hot, because our ability to sweat declines as we age. However, heat stress can also affect individuals who are young and fit. Water is crucial to helping the body adjust to high temperatures. The rate of water intake must equal the increased rate of water loss by perspiration to keep body temperature normal. When its hot, drink plenty of water! Your body must work even harder to get rid of excess heat when conditions are both hot and humid. Unfortunately, perspiration cant evaporate as readily under muggy conditions. The process is easier if the surrounding air is moving. Thats why we welcome a cool breeze, or turn on a fan when the air is sticky. Sickness and accident rates increase when heavy work is done at temperatures above 30 degrees. Dont push yourself beyond your limits. It could be harmful to your health, and could put you at increased risk of having an accident. Heat stress hazards Following are three common conditions that can result from the body overheating. Heat cramps: Heavy sweating drains the body of salt, which cannot be replaced by simply drinking water. Painful cramps occur in the arms, legs, or stomach while on the job, or later at home. Move to a cool area at once if cramping is experienced. Loosen clothing and drink cool, lightly-salted water or a commercial fluid replacement beverage. Seek medical aid if the cramps are severe, or dont go away. Heat exhaustion: Inadequate water and salt intake causes the bodys cooling system to break down. Symptoms include heavy sweating, cool, moist skin, body temperature over 38 degrees, weak pulse, and normal or low blood pressure. The victim is likely to be tired, weak, clumsy, upset, or confused. They will be very thirsty, and will pant or breath rapidly. Their vision may be blurred. Get medical help immediately! Heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke, which can kill. Move the person to a cool, shaded area. Loosen or remove excess clothing. Provide cool, lightly-salted water. Fan and spray the victim with cool water. Heat stroke can kill a person quickly! Once the body uses up all its water and salt, sweating ceases. Temperature can rise quickly. You can assume a person is suffering from heat stroke if their body temperature is over 41 degrees, and any of the following symptoms are present: weakness, confusion, distress, strange behaviour. hot, dry, red skin. rapid pulse. headache or dizziness. 45

 In later stages of heat stroke, a victim may pass out and have convulsions.
Call an ambulance immediately if heat stroke is suspected. The victims life may be on the line! Until help arrives, move the victim to a cool area and remove excess clothing. Fan and spray them with cool water. Offer sips of water if the victim is conscious. Heat wave guidelines The following measures should help prevent the development of heat-related illnesses. 1. Slow down in hot weather. Your bodys temperature regulating system faces a much greater workload when temperature and humidity are high. 2. Heed early warnings of heat stress, such as headache, heavy perspiration, high pulse rate, and shallow breathing. Take a break immediately and get to a cooler location. Watch for heat stress signs among your co-workers. 3. Dress for hot weather. Lightweight, light-coloured clothing reflects heat. 4. Drink plenty of water. Dont let yourself dry out. 5. Increase your salt intake, preferably by adding salt to your food. (Consult your physician if you are on a salt-restricted diet.) 6. Try to get used to warm weather gradually. Take it easy for those first two or three hot days. Your body will have a better chance to adjust if you take it slow. 7. Get out of the heat occasionally. Physical stress increases with time in hot weather. Take breaks in a cool, shady location. 8. Dont try to get a suntan while you are working ! Its harder for your internal cooling system to work through sunburned skin. Wear a hat and long-sleeved shirt to prevent burning (which we know can increase the risk of skin cancer.)

AGRICULTURAL MACHINERY HAZARDS The very fact that agricultural machinery uses tremendous power to do work makes its operation a potential hazard for both the operator and bystanders. Even though

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manufacturers try to ensure that their machinery is as safe as possible, the nature of some work creates inherent hazards which cannot be removed. Most accidents with agricultural machinery can be attributed to human error. In many cases the operator either forgot something, took a shortcut or a risk, ignored a warning, wasn't paying close attention or failed to follow safety rules. Accidents with farm machinery can be crippling or even fatal. It is important to recognize and be alert to possible hazards and to take precautions to avoid injury. There are many different kinds of agricultural machinery--mowers, tractors, shredders, harvesters, grinders, blowers, augers, balers, etc.--but they all have similar characteristics and similar hazards. You can be cut, crushed, pulled in or struck by an object thrown by these machines. They can have cutting edges, gears, chains, revolving shafts, rotating blades, levers and similar hazards. You can also be injured if you fall while working on or near any of these machines. Some machine parts cannot be completely shielded in order to do their job. For instance, a cutting blade cannot be totally enclosed, or it could not cut. Operators remove guards for maintenance and often they don't get replaced. This creates a potentially dangerous situation. Most agricultural machines have similar or common components to do their work. A basic understanding of these and the hazards which they pose will heighten your safety awareness and prevent injury. SHEAR POINTS Shear points are created when the edges of two objects are moved closely enough together to cut a soft material, as in the case of a pair of shears or an auger. Cutting points are created when a single object moves forcefully or rapidly enough to cut, as in the case of a sickle blade.

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Both shear and cutting points are created on machinery designed to cut, as in harvesters, and on those that are not designed to cut, as in an auger. They are hazards because of their cutting force, and because they often move so rapidly that they may not be visible. It can be easy to forget that they are operating. Because some cutting and shearing points cannot be guarded, it is important to be aware of the hazard and to be especially alert when they are operating. It is also important to warn others and to look out for their safety, because of the danger of thrown objects while using cutting-type equipment.

PINCH POINTS Pinch points are formed when two rotating objects move together and at least one of them moves in a circle. For example, the point at which a belt runs onto a pulley is a pinch point. Belt drives, chain drives and gear drives are other sources of pinch points in power transmission devices. Feed rolls, gathering chains and similar equipment to draw crops into the machine also create pinch points.

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Fingers, hands and feet can be caught directly in pinch points, or they may be drawn into the pinch points by loose clothing that becomes entangled. Contact may be made by just brushing against unshielded parts or by falling against them. You can become entangled in pinch points if you take chances and reach over or work near rotating parts. Machines move too fast to get out of a pinch point once you become caught in it. To avoid injury from pinch points, be aware of the areas where pinch points occur and avoid them. Wear clothing that fits well and is not loose or floppy. Never reach over or work near rotating parts. Turn off machinery to work on it. Always replace shields if you must remove them for maintenance.

WRAP POINTS Rotating shafts are the most common source of wrap point accidents, although any exposed machine part that rotates can be a wrap point. A cuff, sleeve, pant leg or just a thread can catch on a rotating part and result in serious injury. Entanglement with a wrap point can pull you into the machine, or clothing may become so tightly wrapped that you are crushed or suffocated. In other cases, you could be thrown off balance and fall into other machine parts.

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Even a perfectly round shaft can be a hazard if there is enough pressure to hold clothing against the shaft. Shafts that are not round increase the hazard significantly. Clothing is more likely to catch if there is a little mud or dried manure, or a nick on the shaft. Ends of shafts which protrude beyond bearings are also dangerous. Universal joints, keys and fastening devices can also snag clothing. Check all equipment for potential wrap points, and shield those that can be shielded. Place warnings on those that cannot be covered, or paint them a bright color, perhaps with wide stripes. Be aware of wrap points and be alert to their danger. CRUSH POINTS Crush points are created when two objects move toward each other or one object moves toward a stationary one. For example, hitching tractors to implements may create a potential crush point. Failure to block up equipment safely can result in a fatal crushing injury. A jack may slip, a hose or overhead support may break, or the equipment may roll. Be sure to take extra precautions when working with machinery that is raised for any reason. Crushing injuries most commonly occur to fingers that are crushed at the hitching point. Wait until the tractor has stopped before stepping into the hitching position. If possible arrange the hitch point so that the tractor can be backed into position without anyone between. Always know what the other person is doing.

The head or chest of an operator may be crushed between the equipment and a low beam or other part of a building. Usually, these accidents occur when operating the machine in reverse Tree limbs are also potential hazards when working with tractors and other machinery.

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To prevent being crushed or pinned, first, recognize the potentially dangerous situations, then, avoid them whenever possible. Block all machinery securely if you must work under it. If an implement can roll freely, block its wheels so it cannot roll.

FREE-WHEELING PARTS Many machine parts continue to spin after the power is shut off. Examples of this are cutter heads of forage harvesters, hammer mills of feed grinders, rotary mower blades, fans, flywheels, etc.

Never touch these parts until they have stopped moving completely. This may take as long as several minutes.

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SPRINGS Springs are commonly used to help lift equipment, such as shock absorbers, and to keep belts tight and may harbor potentially dangerous stored energy. Springs under compression will expand with great force when released, and springs that are stretched will contract rapidly when released. Know what direction a spring will move and how it might affect other machine parts when released, and stay out of its path. HYDRAULIC SYSTEMS Hydraulic systems store considerable energy. They lift implements, such as plows, change the position of implement components, such as a combine header or bulldozer blade, operate hydraulic motors and assist in steering and braking.

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Careless servicing, adjustment or replacement of parts can result in serious injury. Highpressure blasts of hydraulic oil can injure eyes or other body parts by burning or penetrating the tissue due to the liquid being hot. Leaks are a serious hazard. Never inspect hydraulic hoses with your hands because a fine jet of hydraulic fluid can pierce the skin. Jet streams from even pinhole leaks can penetrate flesh. Get medical attention quickly, or you could lose that part of the body that was injected. Use a piece of cardboard to test the hose for leaks. Before attempting any service on hydraulic systems, shut off the engine, which powers the hydraulic pump. Lower the implement to the ground and relieve the pressure. Follow the instructions in your operator's manual, because the specific procedures for servicing the systems are very important to your safety.

PULL-IN POINTS Pull-in points usually occur when someone tries to remove plant material or other obstacles that have become stuck in feed rolls or other machinery parts. Always shut off the power before attempting to clear plugged equipment. PREVENTING INJURIES TO WORKERS BY ROBOTS There is an increasing use of robots in the greenhouse industry in Ontario. Workers who have had accidents in other industries involving robots, often lacked the training or failed to recognize hazards associated with the working zone of the robot. There are three main areas to consider for the safety of all involved with robots. These areas include: the design of the robotic machine the training of workers around the machine the supervision of workers

Design: A well designed robotic system will include physical barriers such as gates equipped with electrical interlocks, so that the operation of the robot stops when the gate is opened. Other backup systems such as motion sensors, light curtains or floor sensors can also stop the robot whenever a worker crosses the barrier..

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Barriers should be provided to keep workers from areas where they may become trapped near freestanding objects such as posts between any part of the robot and the pinch points. Plan for and provide adequate clearance distances for the moving components of the robotic system, since more space is needed than for a human worker doing the same task. Include as much remote diagnostic instrumentation as possible to minimize human contact with the robot. This allows for troubleshooting at a safe distance. Whenever it is necessary for a worker to be in close proximity while diagnosing problems, the buddy system and emergency shut down should be provided for. Provide good lighting around the operating controls of the robot and wherever there are written instructions, to make them clearly visible. Use highly visible markings on the floors and vicinity to indicate zones of movement of the robot and where it is safe to stand or walk. Worker Training: Personnel who will be programming, operating or maintaining robots should have training specific to each robot. Refresher courses help to re-emphasize safety and discuss new technological improvements and developments. Workers should be familiar with all aspects of the robot including full range of motion, known hazards, how the robot is programmed, emergency stop buttons, and safety barriers, before operating or performing maintenance work at robotic work stations. Operators should never be in the reach of a robot when it is operating. Programmers, operators and maintenance workers should operate robots at reduced speeds consistent with adequate worker response to avoid hazards during programming and be aware of all conceivable pinch points, such as poles, walls, or other equipment, in the robots operational area. Supervision of Workers: Supervisors should assure that no one is allowed to enter the operational area of a robot without first putting the robot on hold in a power down condition, or at a reduced operating speed mode. If possible, shut down. Recognize that with the passage of time, experienced workers doing automated tasks may become complacent, overconfident, or not attentive to the hazards inherent in complex automated equipment. Close supervision of such operations is imperative to assure safety.

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OPERATION OF POWER ELEVATED MOBILE WORK PLATFORMS (includes scissor lifts, articulating & extendible work platforms) The following guidelines were developed for the industry by the Scaffold Industry Association of Canada. These rules do not purport to be all-inclusive nor to supplant or replace other additional safety and precautionary measures to cover usual or unusual conditions. If these rules conflict in any way with any provincial statute or regulation, said statute or regulation shall supersede these rules and it shall be the responsibility of each user to comply therewith. General Rules: 1. Work area survey: Before operating the machine, the operator must make a work survey of hazards such as uncompacted soil, ditches, debris, overhead electrical lines, unguarded openings or hazardous conditions created by other trades. The machine should not be operated on surfaces other than those intended by and set out in the manufacturers instructions. 2. Inspection: All equipment must be inspected prior to each shift by the operator.. Such inspections should include the daily maintenance checks in accordance with manufacturers instructions and a visual inspection of the machine for damage and devices which do not appear to operate properly. Equipment which has obvious defects must be repaired before being operated. 3. Never use equipment for purposes or in ways for which it was not intended. 4. Report any unsafe condition.

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5. Never take chances: do not work on platforms if your physical condition is such that you feel dizzy or unsteady in any way. Workers must ascend to and descend from the platform using the facilities provided. 6. Training: Workers must be properly instructed on applicable model before they operate the equipment. Such instructions should include a review of manufacturers operating instructions, location of all emergency devices, safety decals, daily maintenance checks, machine limitations and pertinent regulations regarding use of the equipment. Workers must be able to exercise common sense and be competent to operate this equipment. a worker must not operate a powered elevating movable platform when his physical abilities are impaired by illness, medication, drugs, or alcoholic beverages. 7. Elevating work platforms, normally are not intended for use near electrical energized circuits. Users should therefore, consider the work platform to be non-insulated unless otherwise labeled. 8. The operation of any work platform is subject to certain hazards that cannot be protected against by mechanical means but only by the exercise of intelligence, care and common sense. it is therefore essential to have competent careful operators, physically and mentally fit and thoroughly trained in the safe operation of this type of equipment. if you do not fit this description do not operate equipment.

Specific rules 1. Read manufacturers operating instructions. Never exceed manufacturers recommended load. All accessories must be installed ad used in accordance with manufacturers recommended procedures. 2. Perform manufacturers daily maintenance checks and make visual inspection of vehicle surrounding area to be sure both are clear of other personnel and obstructions (including overhead obstructions). 3. Guardrails: do not use machine without guardrails. Do not stand on guardrails to gain extra reach. Do not use guardrails to carry materials unless designed for this purpose and do not allow excessive overhand of materials when elevating the platform. 4. A safety belt with lanyard, or body belt and safety straps must be attached to the basket or boom of extendible or boom platforms. 5. Do not lean out over platform railings to perform work. 6. Do not use ladders or makeshift devices on the platform to obtain greater height. 7. All personnel must remain clear while equipment is in use. Do not climb up or down extendible, articulating or scissor arms. 8. Out riggers or stabilizers must be used in accordance with manufacturers recommendations. 9. Care must be taken to prevent ropes, electrical cords, hoses etc from becoming entangled in equipment when platform is being elevated or equipment moved. 10. Do not alter equipment or override safety devices in any way. 56

11. a powered elevating work platform must not be operated near electrically energized overhead power lines, unless insulated per CSA. 12. It is the responsibility of the operator to ensure that the load of workers, materials and tools on the platform does not exceed the capacity of the machine. Loads should be secured from rolling or excessive movement. 13. The machine must not be moved until the operator has determined by visual inspection that the direction of intended movement is clear of hazards, obstructions, and other sire personnel. 14. Under no circumstances may a machine be modified without written approval of the manufacturer. In addition, the machine must not be operated when any of the safety devices are inoperable. 15. When a scissor or boom lift is left unattended by the operator, the unit shall be locked, or rendered inoperative. To prevent the device from being started or set in motion by an unauthorized person. If you do not understand these instructions ask your supervisor for clarification.

TRAINED FORKLIFT OPERATOR SPELLS SAFETY AND EFFICIENCY Forklifts save a lot of hard work, reduce back injuries and over-exertion, and help make small building projects more efficient. But the growing use of forklifts has also resulted in an increased need for safety. Cause of forklift injuries It may seem strange but about a quarter of forklift injuries occur when the equipment is not even operating. Personnel are injured getting on or off. Many of these accidents could be prevented by maintaining three-point contact. When getting on and off a forklift, always keep one foot and two hands or two feet and one hand in contact with the equipment. Dont jump and always face the machine when climbing up or down. Operators are also injured when: -Adjusting forks, -Equipment strikes other equipment, material and structures, -Lifting materials,

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-Making repairs or doing routine maintenance. General safety guidelines For any given forklift, the operator must be trained in the machines daily maintenance, its maximum capacity, and how its stability and center of gravity are affected by ground slope and by load size height. It is also essential to check ground conditions, especially in areas previously excavated and then refilled, such as utility trenches. The operators manualcovering these and other points should be kept with the machine.

Inspection Safety begins even before the machine is operated. Do not store materials to be moved by forklift under overhead power lines or heating pipes. Do a walk-around inspection before operating. Check for low tire pressure. Any fuel or hydraulic leaks should be repaired before using the machine. Make sure that steps, ladders and the operators station are free of mud, oil, snow and other slippery material. Check all hydraulic controls at the start of a shift to ensure that they are working properly.

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Operation Start the machine only when seated in the operators station. Follow manufacturers instructions when loading and unloading the machine from trailers or floats. Make sure the forklift is secured to the float before moving. Set the forks as wide as permissible for the load. Before lifting, the load should be as far back on the forks as possible, with its center of gravity between the forks. Transport the load with the mast raised in the normal carry position of no more than six to ten inches. Tilt the mast back when transporting a load. Do not transport or elevate the load on a steep slope. The forks should only be raised when the machine is relatively level. On gentler slopes, the forklift should be driven up and backed down. The loaded forks should always point uphill. Do not walk or stand under a raised forklift. When raised for repairs, the forks should be supported. Never leave a forklift unattended with the engine running or the forks raised. Before leaving the machine, always rest the forks on the ground. Remove the ignition key or make the machine otherwise inoperable. Operate the forklift smoothly. Braking quickly or speeding around corners over bumps can dislodge the load or even tip the machine. If the load must be raised, travel only very short distances and at creeping speeds. Operate on level ground when moving the load into position. Use a second worker as a guide, since depth perception is often distorted from the operators station. Do not drive near the edge of embankments or over excavated areas that have been refilled but may settle or collapse. These areas may be present when construction has occurred. Do not attempt to lift materials with a sling lopped over the forks. Use a proper hook with a safety catch instead. Never let anyone ride or be lifted on the forks.

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BUILDING/WORKPLACE CHECKLIST
Following are suggested areas to examine when carrying out and inspection/safety audit. Structure/Housekeeping -aisle ways & passageways -sufficient exits for prompt escape -exits signs adequately illuminated -flammables kept away from exits -snow and ice removed Floors & Stairways -clean, orderly, sanitary conditions -free of slip, trip or fall hazards -free of protrusions, nails, etc, -openings covered or barricaded -load limits posted on floors -hand rails on at least one side -grating on outdoor stairs -steps uniform in height & tread depth Stacking and Storing Facilities -adequate storage facilities -storage is secure & properly stored -condition of skids, proper type -warning signs posted ( load limits, heights) Fire Protection -appropriate type & # of extinguishers -appropriate location of extinguishers -extinguishers inspected monthly -fire hoses properly mounted -fire equipment visibly marked -sprinkler heads proper clearance -fire emergency alarm operational -emergency signs & procedures posted -fire department numbers posted Electrical -high voltage and control panels closed & secure -control panels identified -general condition of wiring -explosion-proof fixtures -lockout provisions prescribed -electrical equipment protected from liquids Lighting

Noise exposure -engineering controls -hearing protection for high noise areas -hazardous noise areas identified & posted Ventilation -adequate means of ventilation provided -hoods draw air away from people -hoods connected to exhaust system First Aid -WSIB form 82 posted in conspicuous location -adequate type & # of first aid kits -adequate # of trained personnel in first aid -adequate components to first aid kits -adequate first aid treatment recording system Personal Protective Equipment -use of equipment where appropriate -availability -maintenance of -storage facilities for Pesticides -separate storage area locked -authorized personnel warning signs -No Smoking signs posted -chemicals kept in original containers -pesticides stored separately -trained, certified operators -lists/inventory of chemicals stored -re-entry procedure for sprayed areas -appropriate PPE available for application -guidelines in writing for application, storage and disposal Confined Spaces -appropriate warning signs -appropriate PPE & written entry procedures -identification of confined spaces Compressed Gases -stored upright in tanks and secured -properly identified and marked -caps in place and hand tight -stored away from heat sources -stored away from stairs, elevators, and exits -inspected for dents and corrosion -appropriate warning signs Fuel Safety -regulation tanks/containers -tanks adequately vented and grounded -located/stored according to regulations

-walking & working areas illuminated during work hours

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Fuel Safety continued -appropriate colour coded containers -caps secured -No Smoking signs posted -appropriate safety rules for refueling -separate appropriate containers for oily rags, materials, dust, flammables, scraps, chemical wastes Hand & Power tools -proper condition and maintenance -proper storage -guards and safety devices in place -electrical grounding or double insulation protected -adjustments correct -load rating sufficient for work performed -authorized users only -personnel trained to use tools -defective tools removed and tagged Mechanical Power System -adequate guarding -emergency stop buttons operational & correctly positioned -lockout procedure for servicing, set up and maintenance -qualified trained operators -adequate warning signs posted -authorized trained operators Ladders -safety feet in serviceable condition

-unpainted and free of grease & oil -properly positioned, tied off at top -metal ladders not used in electrical areas Employee Safety Program -adequate job orientation -rules posted in work areas -adequate job instruction -adequate emergency training -adequate supervision Supervisor Safety Program

-workplace inspections: frequency?

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BUILDING/WORKPLACE AUDIT Date:_______________________ Farm Location: ___________________________________________________________ Number of employees at this location: Full time _______ Seasonal: _________ Partial audit includes the following worksite areas (please identify them below) : 1. ___________________________________ 3. ___________________________________
-Structure/Housekeeping -Fire Protection -Noise exposure -P.P.E. -Compressed gases -Mechanical power system -Material handling Equipment

2.____________________________ 4. ____________________________
-Stacking & storage facilities -Lighting -First aid -Confined space -Hand & power tools -Employee Safety Program -Management Safety

-Floors & stairs -Electrical -Ventilation -Pesticides -Fuel safety -Ladders -Supervisor Safety

Recommendation #

Specific Location:

Description of HAZARD/UNSAFE ACT/ & APPROPRIATE RECOMMENDATION

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TRANSPORT VEHICLE CHECKLIST

Smoking rules obeyed at fuelling area Fire extinguishers available Fire extinguishers inspected regularly Propane cylinders stored upright and secured as per legislation Cleanup materials available for spills Proper type of fire extinguishers available

Housekeeping Yard surface free of holes debris Trash containers adequate, convenient and emptied regularly Yard drainage good, no accumulation of water / ice Lighting adequate, no dark areas Lighting fixtures secure and working properly Stairs clean and free of debris Cleaning equipment available

Safe Work Practices Drivers obey speed limits, signs & patterns? Only authorized drivers/vehicles allowed in the yard Drivers check before backing and yield right of way Yard workers and drivers dressed properly for weather and job duties Drivers use hand and footholds properly to get on and off vehicles No unauthorized riders on/in vehicles Proper procedures followed in hookups, unhooking, and parking of vehicles Safety rules enforced for employees/visitors (PPE worn if required)

Fire Protection and emergency Plans Fire and emergency action plan exists Employees and supervisors assigned tasks in case of emergencies Snow removal plan exists and is practical Hazardous materials properly identified and stored; MSDS available for each Fire extinguishers locations well marked

Vehicle Inspection Vehicles inspected and in good condition Preventative maintenance program in place? Condition of trailers examined Adequate emergency equipment- fire extinguishers, first aid kit, flares etc. Load properly packed and secured Vehicle interiors free of hazards and damage Trailer stands used where applicable Ventilation good on dock/warehouse and in vehicles

Fuel Storage Area Fuel storage area clean, trash containers available Lighting adequate and properly working NO SMOKING signs posted

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MTO

SAMPLE -------DAILY VEHICLE INSPECTION REPORT

Note: Reports may be combined with another document or contain additional owner specified information. MAKE OF MOTOR VEHICLE_____________________________________________________ MOTOR VEHICLE NUMBER PLATE OR UNIT NO.___________________________________ TRAILER 1 NUMBER PLATE OR UNIT NO._________________________________________ TRAILER 2 NUMBER PLATE OR UNIT NO._________________________________________ DATE OF INSPECTION___________________________________________________________ TIME OF INSPECTION___________________________________________________________ NAME OF PERSON WHO INSPECTED THE VEHICLE(S)______________________________ SIGNATURE OF PERSON WHO INSPECTED THE VEHICLE(S)________________________ INSIDE INSPECTION 1. Steering wheel, excessive play, looseness 2. Brake pedal reserve and fade 3. Brake booster operation 4. Brake failure warning light 5. Brake air pressure or vacuum gauge 6. Warning signal, low pressure or low vacuum 7. Windshield washer and wipers 8. Windshield and windows 9. Mirrors 10. Defroster and heaters 11. Horn 12. Driver's seatbelt and seat security 13. Parking brake 14. Emergency equipment DRIVER, SAFETY DEFECTS FOUND NO OUTSIDE INSPECTION 1. All lights and reflectors 2. Wheels and fasteners 3. Tires 4. Fuel system 5. Exhaust system 6. Fifth wheel 7. Suspension, spring, air bags and controlling attachments. 8. Towing and coupling devices 9. Load security 10. Load covering 11. Air brake adjustment and connections 12. Hydraulic brake fluid 13. Mirrors

YES

LIST OF DEFECTS FOUND _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________ DRIVER, DEFECTS OBSERVED WHILE DRIVING VEHICLE__________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________ REPAIR PERSON, REPAIRS REQUIRED YES NO DEFECTS REPAIRED____________________________________________________________ SIGNATURE AND DATE OF PERSON WHO REPAIRS DEFECTS OR DETERMINES THAT REPAIRS WERE UNNECESSARY. SIGNATURE_________________________________ DATE __________________________

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Farm Safety Association

Agriculture . Agribusiness . Horticulture . Landscaping

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