Safety Tips to Consider When Using a Garden Spade
Gardening can be therapeutic, but one needs to use the right tools to avoid injuries. A spade is one of the most common garden tools that one can hardly do without. Whether turning the soil or digging holes for planting trees, it is important to be cautious while using the spade. Unfortunately, mishaps can happen unexpectedly, causing significant injuries. However, adhering to safety guidelines significantly reduces the chances of accidents, ensuring safer gardening for everyone. Here are some essential safety tips to consider when using a garden spade:
Invest in the Right Spade
Before using the spade, ensure that it is the right one for the type of gardening you intend to do. There are various spades in the market, each with different sizes, shapes, and materials. Choose a spade that is the perfect size for you, with a comfortable grip, and made of high-quality materials for durability. This will help avoid strain injuries and ensure that the spade is strong enough to handle any job.
Proper Body Positioning
When using a garden spade, it is essential to keep your back straight to avoid strain injuries. Stand with your feet apart and staggered to maintain balance while exerting energy on the spade. Avoid twisting your body too much and engage your core muscles to avoid straining your back. It is essential to keep your hands and feet at a safe distance from the cutting edge of the spade. This will prevent injuries in case you accidentally hit yourself with the blade.
Digging Technique
When digging, always use the spade’s sole to push it into the ground, not your foot. Don’t use excessive force when digging, as it increases the chances of the blade slipping and possibly causing injury. When digging, ensure that you stand to the side of the spade to avoid injury in case the blade slips or hits a hard object. Remove soil from the spade by tapping it gently against the ground instead of shaking it, which can cause the blade to bounce back and injure someone.
Keep the Spade Clean and Dry
After using the spade, clean it with a garden hose, and dry it thoroughly before storing it. This will prevent rusting, which can weaken the blade over time. Additionally, storing the spade in a dry place helps keep both the spade and anyone who will use it later safe from injury. It is also important to keep the spade’s blade sharp to avoid extra pressure when digging, which can cause accidents.
Wear Safety Gear
Wearing the right safety gear is important while using a garden spade. Gloves protect your hands from blisters and thorns in the soil. Durable shoes or boots with good treads provide extra traction and protection for your feet. Wearing eye protection such as goggles or sunglasses prevents debris from flying into your eyes while digging. If you have allergies or respiratory conditions, consider wearing a dust mask or other appropriate respiratory equipment to prevent inhalation of dust and other irritants.
