Wood Chipper Safety: Dos and Don’ts
Wood chippers are invaluable tools for those who work with wood regularly, such as farmers, landscapers or tree surgeons. However, if not used correctly, they can be very dangerous and cause serious accidents. Therefore, it is crucial to know the dos and don’ts of using a wood chipper correctly to ensure everyone’s safety.
Dos:
- Read the manual carefully: When you first purchase a wood chipper, it is essential to study the manual thoroughly before using it for the first time. It provides important information such as safety warnings, operational details, and maintenance requirements.
- Wear protective gear: Always wear protective gear such as sturdy gloves, goggles, earplugs, and a hard hat when using a wood chipper. This will keep you safe from any flying debris or wood chips that might come out of the machine.
- Maintain a safe distance: Keep a safe distance from the wood chipper while it is in operation, and never stand on or near the input chute. Maintain a safe distance behind the machine, a minimum of 10 feet.
- Inspect the machine: Before use, make sure that the wood chipper is in good condition. Check for any loose bolts, worn-out chipper blades or other parts that need replacement.
- Feed the machine gradually: The wood should be fed into the chipper gradually, as doing so all at once can cause the machine to jam. Take the time to break the wood into smaller pieces to guide it through the machine.
Don’ts:
- Wear loose clothing: Avoid wearing loose clothing when working with a wood chipper as this could be caught in the machine and drag in the operator.
- Allow distractions or interruptions: Avoid any distractions or interruptions while operating the machine, as they can lead to mistakes and accidents. Any distractions from the cell phone should be put aside as well.
- Use the machine on wet or damp wood: Do not use the wood chipper on wet or damp wood as it will cause the blades to dull quickly and create a bigger chance of jamming.
- Attempt to free a jam while the machine is running: If the chipper becomes jammed, do not attempt to free the blockage with your hands. Always turn off the machine and wait for it to come to a complete stop before trying to remove the obstruction.
- Allow children or inexperienced workers to operate the machine: Never allow children or inexperienced workers to operate a wood chipper. Only trained and experienced workers should operate a chipper.
Conclusion:
Wood chippers are powerful machines that can do a lot of hard work in a short amount of time. However, if they are not used correctly, they can be very dangerous. Following the dos and don’ts of using a wood chipper will keep you and others safe while at work. Always remember to wear protective gear, keep a safe distance, and read the manual carefully. Working safely with a wood chipper will ensure everyone stays safe and reduces the risk of accidents.<!--markdown-->