Safety and Working Conditions

When we think of “safety” with regards to snow removal, there are some significant considerations that have to be taken into account. The timing of the work that is required comes into play. The vast majority of work done in winter snow removal operations is done at night. This presents some challenges that don’t normally incur during landscape operations. Additionally, a good portion of the work is done “behind the wheel”, and this too is different than most landscape/tree care/irrigation/excavation work.

In landscape work, we involve vehicles to transport us from project to project. In winter, vehicle operation is one of the primary tasks and not just a method of transportation. Additionally, with the work being done mostly at night – attention to safe driving practices becomes even more important. True, we work in driveways and parking lots which are (for the most part) vacant. But fatigue can take its toll and become a larger factor during nighttime snow removal operations than it is during daytime landscaping operations. This can be especially prevalent when the snow event goes on for days requiring “round the clock” working conditions. Plow drivers need breaks too – sometimes only to get a bite to eat and a shower. They can be revived for many hours with just a short, well timed break from the action.

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