Machine Safety for Crews That Operate Mulch & Bark Blowers

As with any large equipment or machinery, safety is critical when planning to operate mulch and bark blowers. It begins with practicing proper landscaping safety techniques. The first step to ensuring both the site and the team at work are as safe as possible is to thoroughly read the Operations Equipment Manual (OEM) for the specific bark blower or mulch blower that will be used.

Each model of mulch or bark blower machine is unique, so understanding the detailed instructions and safety measures outlined in the OEM can help prevent accidents and better ensure efficient operation. While there are specific differences from machine to machine, we’ll outline some key safety basics that every operator should follow to maintain a safe working environment and get the most out of their equipment.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) should always be used when operating any bark or mulch blower. Basic items like gloves, ear plugs, boots, and dust masks help ensure the safety of the operators at every stage of the mulch blowing process. 

• Hearing Protection — helps prevent long-term hearing damage from high noise levels produced by blowers. 
• Gloves — protects hands from cuts or scrapes that can accompany the handling of mulch or bark, and any contact with potentially harmful materials. 
• Steel-toed Boots — reduces the risk of serious injury from heavy falling objects or equipment issues.
• Head Protection — hard hats or helmets help prevent head injuries. 
• Safety Goggles or Shades —  prevents eye injuries while protecting against dust, debris, and UV rays. These also help ensure clear vision during operation for safe and optimal results. 
• Basic Dust Mask — filters out fine particulate matter that can linger in the air during mulch or bark application. It can also prevent inhaling other dust or allergens in the environment. 

Wearing the appropriate PPE can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and health issues, while helping ensure a safe and efficient landscaping work environment.

Pre-Operation Machine Safety Checklist

Depending on the make and model of the material blower you’ll be using, the OEM safety manual should include a pre-operation landscaping safety checklist to help you guard against any safety issues that may arise during use. These generally include steps like:

• Visual Inspection: Conduct a thorough visual inspection of the machine while the engine is off. Check for leaks, broken hoses, and damaged switches. Any defects should be reported immediately so repairs can be made before use. 
• Fluid and Tire Levels: Also while the machine is off, verify the oil, hydraulic oil, and fuel levels on the material blower. Check the tire pressures to ensure they are within the recommended range for optimal operation. Low or underinflated tires can affect the blower’s performance and should be addressed before any blowing begins.
• Equipment Functionality: Start the machine and test the remote control for proper functionality. Ensure batteries are charged. When attaching the machine to a truck hitch, another team member should assist to properly attach the mulcher. Ensure all safety guards are in place.

Operating a Material Blower Safely

To operate the material blower safety, there are some general steps to use that apply to most machines. Again, it’s very important to have read through the specific machine’s safety protocols so you know any unique safety areas to identify or check for the bark or mulch blower that will be used. In general, following these guidelines will help keep the operators and the environment as safe as possible: 

Landscaping Crew Do’s

• Always wear the recommended PPE. 
• Visually inspect the site before beginning, ensuring that all team members are at a safe distance away, and that any physical obstacles like tree limbs, power lines, unauthorized personnel, or pets, are safely out of the way before beginning. 
• Always use a universally-understood ‘All Clear’ signal before engaging the engine. 
• Use enough team members to handle the high pressure of the hose, and make sure the area has secure footing. 
• Only aim the discharge hose at the specific area, never at people, pets, etc. 

Landscaping Crew Don’ts

• Don’t wear accessories such as rings or watches, or loose fitting clothing that could become caught in rotating machinery or blowers. 
• Never operate any bark or mulch blower without all the safety guards in place. 
• Never disconnect the hose while the engine is running. 
• Never ride or lean on fenders or any other part of the blower while in operation, or otherwise. 
• Never use a bark or mulch blower in an enclosed area. 
• Never use a bark or mulch blower when fatigued or under the influence of drugs, alcohol or medication that can impair judgment or cause drowsiness. 
• Never position the discharge hose between an operator’s legs. 
• Never leave a running mulch blower unattended. 

Machine Safety Procedures

In addition to the general safety dos and don’ts for operation, all crew members working with the material blower should be familiar with, and be able to perform, basic machine safety procedures. This will vary between machines, but at minimum, crews should know how to lockout the machine to prevent any accidental startups. Similarly, operators and crews should understand the emergency shutoff system of the machine, and have studied the manual for the material loading and operating best practices and safety precautions to prevent injuries or accidents while using the blower. 

Once all crew members are familiarized with operating and safety procedures, it’s a good idea to make sure basic safety materials – such as first aid kits – are onsite during any planned material blowing. 

Bark and Mulch Blower Safety Takeaways

Taking the proper time to prepare your landscaping crew is an important step to ensuring both the safety and efficiency of your next bark or mulch blowing project. Studying the OEM manuals will give you the information you need to operate and maintain your machine safely, and creating a basic landscaping safety checklist will help you feel confident that you’ve covered all your safety bases before you begin. For more information on the importance of machine safety and procedures, or to access the specific bark or mulch blower manual for your machine, contact us today or browse our catalog of downloadable OEM material blower manuals.