Grubbing Tool Safety Guidelines

These guidelines are appropriate for grubbing hand tools (e.g., hoes, mattocks, picks, Pulaskis, combination tools, McLeods, etc.).

1.  Employees should receive instruction in proper grubbing techniques and tool sharpening.

     a.  When grinding, use eye protection. 

     b.  Keep loose clothing away from moving parts.

     c.  Inspect grinding wheel for cracks and defects before using.  

     d.  Use rest when grinding, grind slowly toward cutting edge, taper properly, avoid overheating.

     e.  Use file and stone to remove burrs and rough spots.

     f.  Secure work in clamp or vice when filing.  Wear gloves.  Use file equiped with knuckle guard.

     g.  Stroke the file across the edge.  Finish edge with hand stone.

     h.  Repair or replace defective or excessively worn tools.

     i.  Inspect for loose or cracked heads.

     j.  Inspect for split, crooked, warped, or splintered handles.

    k.  Keep blade eye tight-fitting and secure.

2.  Grubbing Tool Carrying Safety.

    a.  Grasp handle close to tool head.

    b.  Hold tool with flat surface of blade vertical (parallel to leg).

    c.  Allow arm to hang naturally to side.

    d.  Carry tool on downhill for ease of discard in cas eof fall.

    e.  Never carry tool on sholder.

    f.  When walking with other people maintain a distance of at least ten feet.

    g.  Place an edge guard on the tool to protect its edge and the people.

    h.  Keep tools and people separated in vehicles.

3.  Grubbing Tool Use Safety.

    a.  Do not allow other people to stand, or pass through, work area.

    b.  Wear gloves, leather boots, and possibly eye protection.  Stay alert.

    c.  Ensure secure footing.  Keep feet and legs in the clear when swinging tool.

    d.  Maintain tight grip on handle.  Avoid directing tool toward body.

    e.  Keep tool out in front.  Use gentle, but deliberate, swinging or hoeing action.

    f.  Watch for objects that will cause tool to glance, rebound, or create excessive flying material.

    g.  Maintain 10 feet minimum between people when walking and working.

    h.  Remove all overhead obstructions the tool might strike or hang in.