Hoe-Garden (Download)
Garden Hoes 1 What is a Garden Hoe? Dictionary.com defines a garden hoe as: a long-handled implement having a thin, flat blade usually set transversely, used to break up the surface of the ground, destroy weeds, etc. Source: Dictionary.com Picture: Clip Art 2 History of Garden Hoes Forked sticks were the earliest known hoes and were seen in cave drawings. Heavy flaked-stone implements were mounted with bitumen and used in Mesopotamia. Hoe blades have also been made of animal antlers, shoulder blades, and shells. Source: http://thegardenersrake.com/garden-history-the-hoe 3 Using a Garden Hoe Garden hoes are primarily used in landscaping to slice the soil around weeds. Proper usage is as follows: 1.Raise the hoe away from the body up to about the waist level. 2. Swing the blade down to the ground towards the body, striking at a 45 degree angle. 3. After penetrating the soil, lift out the weed and its roots. Source: http://landscaping.about.com/od/weedsdiseases/ss/weed_fabrics_3.htm 4 Hazards Hoes are relatively safe tools to use, however one should be aware of the following hazards: Blisters Back Strain Wrist Strain Lacerations on feet Heat-related injuries 5 Fatality Statics OSHA did not investigate any hoe-related fatalities from 1990 thru 2007 . 6 Heat-Related Illness From 1999-2003, a total of 3,442 deaths were reported in America from exposure to extreme heat. Heat related illness include: Heat rash, heat cramps, heat edema, heat tetany, fainting, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke need IMMEDIATE medical attention. Be sure to stay hydrated and rest often when working outside for long periods of time. Source: http://firstaid.webmd.com/tc/heat-related-illnesses-topic-overview?page=2 Source: http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm5529a2.htm 7 Best Practices The following PPE should be used when using a garden hoe: Closed-toed shoes or work boots to prevent foot injuries. Gloves to prevent blisters and other hand injuries. Safety glasses to prevent debris from entering the eyes . Sunscreen to prevent sunburns. 8 Best Practices Before using a garden hoe, it should be inspected thoroughly to prevent injury. Check for a solid and comfortable handle. Test for proper length. Ensure a solid attachment of the head to the shaft. Inspect to be sure the head has a sharp edge. Photo: Dr. Jimmie Hinze 9 Best Practices Be sure the hoe is sharp prior to use and periodically check it during use Keep solid footing when using the hoe Switch from right hand to left hand to avoid fatigue Inspect the area prior to work to avoid surprises 10 Best Practices Be sure to rest frequently, especially if back or wrist pain occurs. Do not choke up too far on the handle of the garden hoe. Be aware of the surroundings and do not hoe near others. Watch out for snakes, spiders, fire ants, and other creatures that may be in the work area. Photo: Dr. Jimmie Hinze 11 Think Safety Work Safely 12