FACTS

Some of the key hazards associated with groundskeeping and maintenance safety include:

1. Equipment Accidents: Workers often operate heavy machinery and equipment such as lawnmowers, trimmers, chainsaws, and power tools. These can lead to accidents, including lacerations, crush injuries, or amputations.
2. Slips, Trips, and Falls: Groundskeepers are exposed to uneven terrain, slippery surfaces, and obstacles while performing tasks such as mowing, trimming, or landscaping. Falls from heights, slips on wet surfaces, or trips over debris can result in injuries ranging from bruises to fractures or head trauma.
3. Chemical Exposure: Handling and application of pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers, and other chemicals pose risks of exposure to hazardous substances. Improper handling, inadequate PPE, or lack of training in chemical safety can lead to skin irritation, respiratory problems, or long-term health effects.
4. Heat Stress: Groundskeepers often work outdoors in hot and humid conditions, especially during the summer months. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures without adequate hydration or rest breaks can result in heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion or heatstroke.
5. Musculoskeletal Injuries: Manual tasks such as lifting heavy objects or repetitive motions can strain muscles, joints, and ligaments, leading to musculoskeletal injuries such as sprains, strains, or overuse injuries.
6. Electrical Hazards: Contact with live wires or faulty electrical equipment can result in electric shocks, burns, or electrocution.
7. Wildlife Encounters: Bites, stings, or exposure to disease-carrying pests pose risks to workers’ health.
8. Noise Exposure: Operation of noisy equipment such as lawnmowers, leaf blowers, or chainsaws can lead to hearing loss or other auditory problems if workers are not provided with appropriate hearing protection.

STATS

• According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), in 2019, there were approximately 2.8 million nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses reported among private industry employers. This includes injuries and illnesses across various sectors, including groundskeeping and maintenance.
• The BLS reported a total of 5,333 fatal occupational injuries in the United States in 2019. While not specific to groundskeeping or maintenance, this statistic highlights the potential severity of workplace hazards in various occupations.
• The BLS reports that in 2019, there were 183 fatal occupational injuries in the landscaping services industry in the United States. While this figure encompasses various aspects of landscaping beyond groundskeeping and maintenance, it indicates the inherent risks associated with this line of work.