Policies and Procedures
Department
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Health & Safety Standards & Procedures
Grounds Keeping
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Purpose (This Document is a sample only and must be customized by each
employer to reflect specific workplaces before it is adopted in the workplace.)
The purpose of this policy is to ensure the health and safety of workers operating
grounds keeping equipment and persons in proximity to the work is protected.
Scope
This policy applies to all jobs equipment listed in the Procedure.
Compliance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) and its regulations
and the measures stated in the procedures is required of all employees of the
municipality.
Responsibilities
The Chief Administrative Officer and Council (Officer and Directors as defined by the
OHSA) will provide the necessary resources to implement the measures stated in the
procedures and monitor the implementation of this policy. Corrective action will be taken
when situations of non-compliance with this policy are detected.
The Supervisor will provide instruction and equipment operation training to workers
involved in grounds keeping work. Direct supervision of a worker “in training” will be
maintained until the worker is deemed competent by the Supervisor to operate the
equipment. Corrective action will be taken when situations of non-compliance with this
policy are detected.
The Worker will cooperate with the Supervisor in training activities and follow the
procedures in this policy with the intention of protecting the health and safety of
him/herself and the other employees in the workplace. Any hazards known by the
worker will be reported immediately to a Supervisor.
Procedure
Refueling Small Engine Equipment with Gasoline in Portable Containers
Gasoline in Portable Container Storage
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All workers required to work in proximity to gasoline shall be trained in the
Workplace Hazardous Material Information System (WHMIS) and trained in the
workplace as to the specific use and hazards of gasoline (Appendix XXIV Portable
Gasoline Container Training Checklist)
Policies and Procedures
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Gasoline shall be stored only in containers approved (CSA, ULC, FM) for fuel
storage
Containers shall have a spring-loaded cap and remain closed during storage
Excess quantities of gasoline shall not be stored in portable containers
All portable containers shall have the appropriate “workplace label” as required by
the Workplace Hazardous Material Information System (WHMIS)
A current Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for gasoline shall be available in the
workplace
Storage shall:
 meet the conditions of the Ontario Fire Code and MSDS storage requirements
 be located in a dry, cool, well-ventilated area shaded from direct sunlight
 protect the containers from physical damage or upset
 be signed to warn of the hazard of flammable material and prohibit sources of
ignition
Ignition sources (smoking, welding, pilot lights, etc.) will be kept a minimum of 7.5
metres (25 feet) away from gasoline
Flammable liquid or combustible liquid spills in a building shall be removed
immediately with an absorbent material that will not increase the hazard and shall be
disposed of in a safe manner.
Refueling and Handling
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The required personal protective equipment (PPE) of an appropriate standard (CSA
or ANSI) to be worn by the worker includes:
 Safety glasses
 Work gloves resistant to absorbing gasoline
Workers shall keep exposure to gasoline and its vapours as low as possible
Gasoline is not to be used for purposes other than a motor fuel
Refuel equipment outdoors and a minimum of 7.5 metres away from any sources of
ignition
Shut off the engine and allow it to cool
Refuel equipment on the ground and not on a vehicle
Remove the fuel cap slowly, holding it at the semi-locked position until pressure is
released
Use a funnel or spout to prevent spills and begin pouring gasoline slowly
Watch the fuel level in the tank to avoid over-filling
Replace the fuel cap after checking to see that its venting is not clogged.
Wipe up any spilled fuel and allow any residue to dry before starting the engine
Monitor any spills of gasoline until the liquid has evaporated and report the spill to a
Supervisor
If gasoline has contacted the skin wash the area immediately with soap and water
Immediately change out of clothing that has been soaked with gasoline.
Refilling of Portable Containers with Gasoline
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Required PPE same as for refueling and handling
Mobile communication equipment must not be used while refilling
Smoking or any other sources of ignition are not permitted within 3 metres (10 feet)
of a dispenser at a fuel dispensing station – Ontario Fire Code 4.5.8.7.
Have a fire extinguisher nearby
Before refilling, always remove the container from a vehicle and place it on the
ground at a safe distance from a vehicle (provides a path to dissipate static to
ground).
Dispense gas through funnels, nozzles or spouts and from containers that can easily
be handled
Touch the container with the gas dispenser nozzle before removing the portable gas
container lid (provides another path to dissipate static charge to ground)
Remove the fuel cap slowly, holding it at the semi-locked position until pressure is
released
Manually control the nozzle valve throughout the filling process
Keep the nozzle in contact with the container inlet when filling (to dissipate a static
charge build up from flow of gasoline)
Fill container no more than 90 percent full to allow for expansion
Allow the nozzle to empty by keeping it in the filler opening for a few moments after
shutting off the fuel flow
Place cap tightly on the container after filling - do not use containers that do not seal
properly
When transporting gasoline in a portable container make sure it is secured against
tipping and sliding, and never leave it in direct sunlight or in the trunk of a car.
Grass mowing with a push lawnmower
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Prior operating the push lawnmower the Worker will have received training in the
procedures of safe operation including a review of the operating instruction manual
provided by the manufacturer
The Worker must inform the Supervisor of any known allergies to insect bites/stings
or plants
The Worker and the Supervisor must document the training on the Gas Powered
Push Lawnmower Training Checklist (Appendix XVIII)
The required personal protective equipment (PPE) of an appropriate standard (CSA
or ANSI) to be worn by the worker includes:
 Safety glasses
 Hearing protection (ear muff or plugs)
 Work gloves for blade maintenance
 High visibility/reflective traffic garment/vest
 Long pants
 High-cut (above the ankle) work boots with foot protection and anti-slip soles
 Apply sunscreen (15 SPF or higher) when UV Index is medium or higher
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The push lawnmower shall be inspected by the Worker prior to each use to ensure
the equipment is in good condition and safety features and guards are installed and
functioning
At the beginning of each grounds keeping season the Worker is required to submit
to the Supervisor the results of the trimmer inspection documented on the Gas
Powered Push Lawnmower Inspection Form (Appendix XIX)
The Supervisor must ensure the completion of the documented inspection and verify
the inspection results
Any push lawnmower that is missing a guard or is not in good mechanical condition
will be removed immediately from service. The Worker will notify a Supervisor
immediately of the defective equipment
Before mowing the grass clear the work area of debris (fallen branches, twigs, litter)
Set mower at the highest cutting level when operating on rough ground
Refuel the lawnmower in an outdoor location and away from sources of ignition
The blade control handle is a safety device. Never attempt to bypass its operations
If using a grass catcher ensure the hooks on the grass catcher are seated in the
slots on the handle bracket assemblies, and the rear discharge door rests firmly
against the top of the grass catcher
Start the lawnmower outdoors at least 3 metres (10 feet) away from your refueling
location and sources of ignition
During starting and operation stand clear of the side grass discharge
Mow in dry conditions to avoid slips and falls and accidental contact with the blades
Never reach under the mower decking or into the discharge chute while the mower
is running
Operate the lawnmower only when other workers or persons are at least 23 metres
(75 feet) away
Watch for holes, ruts, rocks, hidden objects, or bumps which can cause you to slip or
trip. Tall grass can hide obstacles
Shut down the mower when passing over gravel covered areas
Avoid pulling the lawnmower towards you to avoid accidental contact of your feet
with the blades
Operate a push mower across a slope not up and down
Do not mow near steep embankments, you could lose your footing or balance
Shut off the engine, disconnect the spark plug wire and allow the parts to stop
moving before unclogging a discharge chute or performing adjustments and
maintenance
Never leave a running mower unattended
Use a stick to unclog the chute or remove grass from the mower
Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wear work gloves during handling and
sharpening
Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration
Report symptoms of heat stress to your Supervisor.
Gas Powered String Trimmer/Brushcutting with Blade
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Prior operating the trimmer the Worker will have received training in the procedures
of safe operation including a review of the operating instruction manual provided by
the manufacturer
The Worker must inform the Supervisor of any known allergies to insect bites/stings
or plants
The Worker and the Supervisor must document the training on the Gas Powered
String Trimmer/Brushcutter Training Checklist (Appendix XX)
The required personal protective equipment (PPE) of an appropriate standard (CSA
or ANSI) to be worn by the worker includes:
 Hard hat with hearing protectors and face screen
 Safety glasses
 Work gloves
 High visibility/reflective traffic garment/vest
 Long pants with string trimming
 Pants or chaps with cut resistant material for leg protection for brushcutting with
blades
 High-cut (above the ankle) work boots with foot protection and anti-slip soles
 Apply sunscreen (15 SPF or higher) when UV Index is medium or higher
The trimmer will be inspected by the Worker prior to each use to ensure the
equipment is in good condition and safety features and guards are installed and
functioning
At the beginning of each grounds keeping season the Worker is required to submit
to the Supervisor the results of the trimmer inspection documented on the Gas
Powered String Trimmer/Brushcutter Inspection Form (Appendix XXI)
The Supervisor must ensure the completion of the documented inspection and verify
the inspection results
Any trimmer that is missing a guard or is not in good mechanical condition will be
removed immediately from service. The Worker will notify a Supervisor immediately
of the defective equipment
If working in an area adjacent to a roadway or mobile equipment, park the truck with
warning beacon on close to the work area
Before operating the trimmer clear the work area of debris (fallen branches, twigs,
litter)
Refuel the trimmer in an outdoor location on the ground and away from sources of
ignition
Start the trimmer at least 3 metres (10 feet) away from your refueling location
During starting and operation stay clear of the rotating parts
Operate the trimmer only when other workers or persons are at least 15 metres (50
feet) away
Shut off the engine and allow the parts to stop moving before making adjustments or
replacing the string spool
Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration
Report symptoms of heat stress to your Supervisor.
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Policies and Procedures
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Health & Safety Standards & Procedures
Grounds Keeping
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Oct. 2012
Grass mowing with a Ride-on Lawnmower (Make and Model)
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Prior to operating the ride-on lawnmower the Worker will have received training in
the procedures of safe operation including a review of the operating instruction
manual provided by the manufacturer
The Worker will request advice from the Supervisor and refer to the operators
manual if doubtful with any operating issues/concerns
The Worker must inform the Supervisor of any known allergies to insect bites/stings
or plants
The Worker and the Supervisor must document the training on the Ride-on
Lawnmower Training Checklist (Appendix XXII)
The required personal protective equipment (PPE) of an appropriate standard (CSA
or ANSI) to be worn by the worker includes:
 Safety glasses
 Hearing protection (ear muff or plugs)
 Work gloves
 High visibility/reflective traffic garment/vest
 Short sleeve shirt - minimum
 Long pants
 High-cut (above the ankle) work boots with foot protection and anti-slip soles
 Apply sunscreen (15 SPF or higher) when UV Index is medium or higher
The ride-on lawnmower shall be inspected by the Worker prior to each use to ensure
the equipment is in good condition and safety features and guards are installed and
functioning
At the beginning of each grounds keeping season the Worker is required to submit
to the Supervisor the results of the trimmer inspection documented on the Ride-on
Lawnmower Inspection Form (Appendix XXIII)
The Supervisor must ensure the completion of the documented inspection and verify
the inspection results
Any ride-on lawnmower that is missing a guard or is not in good mechanical
condition will be removed immediately from service. The Worker will notify a
Supervisor immediately of the defective equipment
Do not remove or tamper with any safety feature that has been installed by the
manufacturer or added by the employer
Do not operate this machine on public roadways
Do not operate the machine while under the influence of alcohol or drugs or impaired
by a medical condition
Before mowing the grass:
 Clear the work area of debris (fallen branches, twigs, litter)
 Inspect the area for holes, ruts or bumps that will need to be avoided and
determine the cutting pattern
Adjust the mower deck to the proper grass cutting height
Refuel the lawnmower in an outdoor location and away from sources of ignition
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Remove the gas container at least 3 metres (10 feet) away from the machine and
allow any spilled gas to evaporate before starting
Do not operate machine without the grass catcher or side deflector chute in place
Operate the mower only when other workers or persons are at least 23 metres (75
feet) away; always aim the discharge chute away from people or objects
The parking brake shall be engaged and the motion control levers in “Park” or
neutral during the starting procedure
To avoid exposure to carbon monoxide do not leave the engine indoors or in
enclosed spaces; operate outdoors only
Engage mower blades (PTO) only when deck is lowered and disengaged prior to
lifting
Engage the mower blades (PTO) only while mowing
Mow in dry conditions for better traction and to prevent clogging of the discharge
Remained in the seat during operation
Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or under the machine. Keep clear of the
discharge opening at all times
Do not make wheel height adjustments while blades are running
Do not leave the lawnmower unattended
Turn off the mower blades (disengage the PTO) when passing over gravel covered
areas
To avoid a collision or machine roll over during mowing:
 Never carry a passenger
 Mow only in daylight
 Reduce speed when operating on slopes and making turns
 Mow up and down slopes (10 degrees maximum), not across
 Avoid stopping and turning on slopes
 Avoid operating in reverse; if necessary look down and behind before and while
backing
Always turn off blades, set parking brake, stop engine, remove keys and wait for all
parts to come to a complete stop before dismounting, cleaning the machine,
removing the grass catcher, or unclogging the discharge guard
Use a stick to unclog the chute or remove grass from the mower
Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wear work gloves during handling and
sharpening
Allow engine parts to cool before maintenance
Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration
Report symptoms of heat stress to your Supervisor.
Loading/Unloading Ride-on Lawnmower on Trailer for Transport
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Park truck and trailer on level, solid ground
Engage the parking brake in the truck, turn off the engine and place the ignition key
in your pocket
The loading ramp is heavy; two workers may be required to move
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Place the loading ramp so it is secured to the rear of the trailer
Anchor the loading ramp to the frame of the trailer with ratchet straps to prevent the
ramp from moving during loading/unloading
Place blocking under the foot of the loading ramp to prevent the mower decking from
becoming hung up
Prior to loading ensure the mower deck is set at its highest height
Back the lawnmower onto the trailer to prevent tip over
Prior to transport:
 set parking brake, stop the engine, remove keys and turn off fuel valve
 Securely tie down the lawnmower to the trailer
During transport periodically monitor the lawnmower in the truck mirrors to ensure it
remains secured to the trailer.
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