A shovel is a work tool used mainly for digging. Though it makes our job easy, it also poses some inherent risks. The major hazard associated with shovel safety is musculoskeletal disorder. Other risks include electrocution, hand injury, contact with another worker, etc.
Shovel Safety Tips
At this point, I will highlight some safety tips associated with the use of shovels:
- Seek the authority of service providers before commencing digging to identify buried services in the area.
- Warm up before carrying out any activity involving the use of a shovel. This will help warm up and straighten your muscles.
- Use a shovel of adequate height; Not too short and not too long. Short shovel enhances stability when throwing while long shovels prevent excess bending.
- Carry a load of adequate weight. At least between 5g – and 7g
- It is recommended that the throw distance should be within 3 feet.
- It is also recommended that the height of the lift should be about 1.3m
- Keep your feet a bit extended to enhance stability.
- Keep the load close to the body
- Turn your feet in the direction of the throw.
- Use appropriate PPE
Read Also: 20 Important hand safety tips
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