FACTS

Key hazards related to fire safety and the use of fire extinguishers in the landscaping industry

1. Improper Use of Fire Extinguishers: Workers may not be adequately trained in the correct use of fire extinguishers, leading to ineffective firefighting efforts or exacerbating the fire situation.
2. Flammable Materials: Landscaping often involves the use of flammable materials like gasoline, mulch, and fertilizers. Improper storage or handling of these materials can lead to fire hazards.
3. Electrical Fires: The use of electrical tools and equipment in landscaping, particularly when improperly maintained or used near water, can result in electrical fires.
4. Lack of Accessible Fire Extinguishers: In some landscaping settings, fire extinguishers may not be readily accessible due to the vast outdoor work areas.
5. Inadequate Fire Safety Training: Workers may not receive sufficient fire safety training, including how to identify fire hazards, when and how to use a fire extinguisher, and evacuation procedures.
6. Overloaded Electrical Circuits: The use of multiple power tools and equipment from a single power source can overload electrical circuits, increasing the risk of electrical fires.
7. Environmental Factors: Landscaping work often takes place in environments where dry grass, leaves, and other combustible materials are present.

STATS

• According to (NFPA), there are approximately 3,000 fire-related injuries in U.S. workplaces annually. While these statistics cover all industries, outdoor work environments, like landscaping, contribute to this figure, especially where flammable materials and equipment are used.
• The leading causes of fires include cooking (47.7%), heating (9.3%), unintentional carelessness (8.8%), and electrical malfunctions (7.0%). Landscaping activities can contribute to fire risks.
• (OSHA) estimates that only 30-40% of small business employees have received adequate fire extinguisher training. This lack of training can result in improper use during emergencies, potentially leading to injuries or ineffective fire suppression.
• In Canada, there were 39,047 fire incidents reported in 2021, with various causes contributing to these fires. While specific statistics for landscaping-related fires are not provided, the general incidence of fires highlights the importance of fire safety measures in all sectors, including landscaping.
• Approximately 95% of wildfires worldwide, which can include landscaping-related fires, are caused by human activity. This statistic underscores the need for awareness and preventive measures in landscaping practices to reduce fire risks.