Protective Equipment You Need While Operating a Leaf Blower

Leaf blowers are very helpful in more ways than one. It is very helpful in landscaping and cleaning dirt, leaves, and debris. But just like any power tools and equipment, there are certain risks with using a leaf blower.

Leaf blowers blow air causing debris and dust to fly around. If you are not wearing proper attire while operating your backpack leaf blower, there might be instances where the debris can hurt you.

Also, they produce a loud sound that can cause temporary or permanent damage to the ears. Make sure you are properly covered and protected when using a leaf blower. Here are some safety equipment tips to help you operate a leaf blower:

Sealed safety goggle while operating a leaf blower

Strong air is expelled by leaf blowers to move leaves and debris. Dust, dirt, debris, and small rocks will be flying around and can fly to your eyes. It can cause discomfort but in critical cases, it can cause vision impairment.

This is why you need to wear proper eye protection like a safety goggle or safety glasses to ensure there are no leaves and debris that will hit your eyes.

We suggest using a sealed safety goggle that meets eye protection standards. It has an adhesive rubber seal to prevent any debris from coming into your eyes when using a backpack leaf blower.

Hearing protection while operating a leaf blower

Leaf blowers produce sound when turned on. When exposed to loud noises, however loud they are, can cause hearing damage when exposed frequently. Therefore, it is very important to wear ear protection.

You can use ear muffs or ear plugs to protect your ears from noise with every use of your backpack leaf blower.

Wear a dust mask when operating a leaf blower

When using a leaf blower, huge amounts of dust will also be blown. You will be exposed and this dust can cause mild irritation. But if exposed to other harmful particles, it can cause permanent damages to the operator’s lungs and even the bloodstream.

We recommend wearing a dust mask to prevent any dust and particles from entering your nose and going to your lungs.

Always dress in protective apparel to use a leaf blower

Using and operating a leaf blower is not an easy job. You have to dress properly in personal protective equipment (PPE) to avoid leaves and debris from hitting you. Avoid loose-fitting jackets with necklaces or jewelry under them as they can get drawn into the air intake, which will cause injury if pulled in.

Wear the long sleeves and pants that lets you easily move around and maneuver the leaf blower. This is the best way to protect yourself from getting hurt from flying debris.

Quality gloves

Wearing gloves is necessary to make sure your grip on the leaf blower is steady and will not slip away. You will be handling powerful equipment for a long time, your hands might get sweaty. It is best to wear gloves.

In addition, there is a chance you will need to pick up some things from the ground. It is convenient to wear gloves to ensure your hands’ safety when using a leaf blower.

Closed-toe footwear

Don’t wear slippers when you are operating a backpack leaf blower. Wear closed shoes because some flying debris might end up hitting your foot. It is best to keep them safe by wearing proper closed shoes.

Wearing the proper clothes, gloves, and footwear along with your personal protective equipment will greatly make your life easier and safer. Don’t skip them. It is better to be safe while using large and powerful equipment like a leaf blower to avoid any accident at work or at home.

We understand the importance of using the right equipment and protection for leaf blower safety. Visit Schröder USA or contact us to speak to a product specialist for recommendations!

source https://schroderusa.com/blogs/news/protective-equipment-you-need-while-operating-a-leaf-blower