With summer season in full swing, it’s important for maintenance managers to maximize efficiency and safety when focusing on lawn care and groundskeeping. From conducting an initial assessment to servicing your equipment, create a strategy that optimizes your efforts while prioritizing the well-being of your staff.

“Remember to learn the safety features and adopt safe practices when using your mower and other outdoor power equipment. Follow manufacturers’ guidance. It sounds basic, but it’s important,” says Kris Kiser, President and CEO of OPEI, an international trade association representing outdoor power equipment, small engine, utility vehicle, golf car and personal transport vehicle manufacturers and suppliers.

The Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI) provides tips for maintenance managers to practice safe and responsible lawncare:

• Walk the yard. Before mowing, scan the yard and remove rocks, sticks, debris, and any loose objects that get in the way of mowing and potentially damage your equipment.
• Check the terrain. Note any steep slopes, holes, or low-hanging branches so you can navigate them with care. Trim or adjust where necessary to simplify the process.
• Inspect and service equipment. Check oil and air filters, look for damaged or missing parts, and read and follow the manufacturer’s owner’s manuals as part of your regular practice.
• Clean and store equipment properly. Wipe off dirt and debris and keep your equipment in a dry place to keep it working at its best when you need it next.
• Use fresh fuel. Never store equipment with fuel in the tank. Remember, storing fuel in hot, humid conditions will make the fuel grow stale more quickly. Also, always turn off the engine and allow the mower to cool completely before refilling the tank.
• Charge batteries using an appropriate charger. Use the charger that came with your equipment and follow the manufacturer instructions, including how to store batteries properly to keep your equipment ready and in optimal condition.
• Never disable, modify or remove safety devices. Follow directions for proper use to keep staff safe.
• Provide PPE. Equip your teams with closed-toed shoes, long pants, safety glasses, and hearing protection for safety. Keep the heat in mind when scheduling work to help protect your staff from the risk of heat stroke or heat exhaustion. 

Lawn care is part of this season’s outdoor maintenance and managers can streamline their approach with a simple strategy that prioritizes efficiency and safety.