| Purpose |
To ensure the safe and effective operation of snow blowers during winter site maintenance, reducing the risk of injuries to Workers and the public. |
| Definition |
A snow blower is an electric, battery or gas-powered machine, designed to remove snow from walkways, driveways, and other surfaces by collecting and discharging it through a chute. |
| Hazards
This list of potential hazards is not comprehensive. Workers are required to complete a Hazard Assessment prior to starting this task to ensure all hazards are identified and controlled.
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Physical:
- Cuts/Lacerations
- Bruise/Contusion
- Amputations
- Slips/Trips
- Strain/Sprain
- Noise
- Weather Conditions
- Flying debris
- Pinch points
- Fire (if gas powered)
|
| Controls |
Administrative:
Personal Protective Equipment:
- Task-Specific PPE: Insulated safety footwear, insulated gloves, hi-vis cold weather clothing, safety glasses, hearing protection.
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| Work Site Supervisory Responsibility |
Do
- Ensure hazard assessment is completed by Workers prior to using a gas-powered snow blower.
- Ensure that only authorized, adequately trained Workers operate tools and equipment.
- Verify guards and safety devices are in place and functional.
- Enforce the use of required PPE.
Do not
- Allow untrained Workers to use a gas-powered or electric snow blower.
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| Worker Responsibility |
Do
- Inspect the snow blower before use.
- Inspect the surrounding area to ensure it is clear of obstacles.
- Use all required PPE (hearing protection, safety glasses and safety footwear).
- Adjust the chute and ensure the snow ejected by the chute does not hit people, vehicles, or homes.
- Keep hands and feet away from moving parts at all times. Shut off the engine before clearing blockages or performing maintenance.
- Ensure good footing and keep a firm hold on the handles.
- On slopes, clear snow by operating the snow blower up and down the face of slopes, not across the face.
- Turn off the snow blower before refueling.
Do not
- Remove safety devices, shields or guards on switches.
- Put hands or feet near or under rotating parts.
- Clean blockages by hand (use a stick/cleaning tool).
- Wear loose clothing that can be caught in moving parts.
- Attempt to clear anything steeper than a 35-degree slope.
- Leave a snow blower unattended when running.
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