Brush Clearing and Grubbing

Document Number: [SWP-NUMBER]

Revision Date: [DATE]

Next Review Date: [NEXT REVIEW DATE]

Department: [DEPARTMENT NAME]

1. Scope

This Safe Work Procedure (SWP) outlines the safety requirements for brush clearing and grubbing operations, including the use of both mechanical equipment and manual tools. It applies to all personnel involved in these activities. This SWP aims to minimize the risk of injuries and ensure safe work practices are followed. It covers hazard assessments, control measures, PPE requirements, and emergency procedures specific to brush clearing and grubbing.

2. Definitions

Brush Clearing The removal of unwanted vegetation, including trees, shrubs, and undergrowth, typically using mechanical equipment or manual tools. Grubbing The process of removing roots, stumps, and other subsurface organic matter from the soil, often to prepare land for construction or landscaping. Hazard Assessment A systematic process of identifying potential hazards and evaluating the associated risks in a specific work environment or task. Control Measures Measures taken to eliminate or minimize the risks associated with identified hazards. These can include engineering controls, administrative controls, and personal protective equipment. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Equipment and clothing designed to protect workers from workplace hazards, including but not limited to safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection, and protective footwear.

3. Responsibilities

3.1 Supervisors

Ensure that all workers are properly trained and competent to perform the assigned tasks.
Conduct regular site inspections to identify and correct hazards.
Enforce all safety rules and procedures.
Provide workers with the necessary tools, equipment, and PPE in good working condition.
Investigate all incidents and near misses to determine root causes and implement corrective actions.

3.2 Workers

Inspect tools and equipment before use to ensure they are in good working condition. Report any defects immediately.
Use the correct tools for the job and use them safely, following all established procedures.
Wear all required PPE, ensuring it fits properly and is in good condition.
Maintain awareness of surroundings and potential hazards, including other workers, equipment, and environmental conditions.
Report any unsafe conditions, near misses, or incidents to the supervisor immediately.

3.3 Health and Safety Representative

Participate in workplace inspections and hazard assessments.
Assist in the development and review of safe work procedures.
Communicate safety concerns and recommendations to management.
Promote a positive safety culture within the workplace.

4. Potential Hazards and Risks

Hazard	Risk	Control Measures
Mechanical equipment failure (e.g., brush cutter malfunction, hydraulic hose rupture).	Serious injury or fatality due to equipment malfunction or lack of control.	Use equipment with appropriate guarding and safety features. Conduct pre-start checks to ensure equipment is functioning correctly. Ensure operators are trained and competent.
Musculoskeletal injuries (MSIs) from repetitive motions, awkward postures, and heavy lifting.	Strains, sprains, and other musculoskeletal disorders.	Ensure workers are trained in proper lifting techniques. Use mechanical aids where possible. Take frequent breaks and rotate tasks to reduce strain.
Exposure to dust, debris, and harmful substances (e.g., poison ivy, pesticides).	Respiratory irritation, skin irritation, allergic reactions, and other health problems.	Provide appropriate PPE, including eye protection, gloves, and hearing protection. Use dust control measures such as water spraying or ventilation.
Struck-by hazards from moving equipment, falling trees, or flying debris.	Bruises, lacerations, fractures, or fatalities.	Maintain a safe distance from other workers and equipment. Use warning signs and barriers to delineate work areas. Ensure good communication between workers.
Vehicle or equipment rollovers, collisions, or other transportation-related incidents.	Serious injury or fatality.	Wear appropriate PPE, including high-visibility clothing. Use equipment with rollover protection (ROPS) and seatbelts. Ensure operators are trained in safe driving practices.
Injuries from manual tools (e.g., cuts from axes or machetes, sprains from shovels).	Lacerations, fractures, sprains, and strains.	Inspect tools before use and replace or repair any damaged tools. Use the correct tool for the job and use it safely. Wear appropriate PPE, including gloves and eye protection.
Contact with poisonous plants (e.g., poison ivy, poison oak).	Skin irritation, allergic reactions, and dermatitis.	Provide training on recognizing and avoiding poisonous plants. Wear appropriate protective clothing. Wash exposed skin with soap and water immediately after contact.
Exposure to extreme weather conditions (e.g., heat stress, lightning strikes).	Heatstroke, hypothermia, lightning strike injuries, and other weather-related health problems.	Monitor weather conditions and postpone work during severe weather. Provide shelter or evacuation plans in case of lightning or other weather hazards. Stay hydrated and take frequent breaks in shaded areas.

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

All workers involved in brush clearing and grubbing operations must wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times. PPE must be inspected before each use and replaced if damaged or defective.

Hard Hat: Provides impact protection to the head. Must meet ANSI Z89.1 standards.
Safety Glasses or Goggles: Protects eyes from dust, debris, and projectiles. Must meet ANSI Z87.1 standards.
Heavy-Duty Work Gloves: Reduces the risk of hand injuries from cuts, abrasions, and vibrations. Select gloves appropriate for the task and materials being handled.
Safety Boots with Steel Toe and Slip-Resistant Soles: Provides ankle and foot protection from punctures, impacts, and crushing hazards. Must meet ASTM F2413 standards.
Hearing Protection (Earplugs or Earmuffs): Protects hearing from excessive noise levels. Choose earplugs or earmuffs with an appropriate noise reduction rating (NRR).
Respiratory Protection: Provides respiratory protection in dusty or moldy environments. Select a respirator appropriate for the specific hazards present.

Inspect PPE before each use for damage or defects. Clean PPE regularly and store it in a clean, dry place. Replace PPE when it is worn or damaged.

6. Equipment and Tools

All equipment and tools used for brush clearing and grubbing operations must be inspected regularly and maintained in good working condition. Any damaged or defective equipment must be removed from service immediately.

Brush Cutter: Used for cutting small trees, shrubs and undergrowth. Ensure the blade is sharp and in good condition. Inspect before each use.
Shovels and Grub Hoes: Used for digging and removing roots and stumps. Select a shovel with a comfortable handle and sturdy blade. Inspect for cracks or damage before each use.
Chainsaw: Used for cutting larger trees and branches. Ensure the chainsaw is properly maintained and operated by a trained worker. Inspect chain sharpness, chain brake function, and fuel levels before each use.
Truck or Utility Vehicle: Used for transporting materials and debris. Ensure the vehicle is in good working condition and operated by a licensed driver. Inspect tires, brakes, and lights before each use.
Leaf Blowers: Used for clearing debris and creating a safe work area. Ensure the area is clear of personnel before operating.

Regularly inspect all equipment and tools for damage or defects. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for maintenance and servicing. Keep equipment clean and lubricated. Remove any damaged or defective equipment from service immediately.

7. Pre-Job Requirements

7.1 Training and Competency

Training and Competency: All workers must receive training on the safe work procedures, hazard awareness, and use of equipment and tools specific to brush clearing and grubbing operations. Training records must be maintained and readily available.

7.2 Pre-Job Briefing

Pre-Job Briefing: A pre-job briefing must be conducted before starting work each day to discuss the tasks to be performed, potential hazards, and control measures. All workers must participate in the briefing and acknowledge their understanding of the safety requirements.

7.3 Work Area Preparation

Work Area Preparation: Before starting work, the area must be inspected for hazards, including underground utilities, overhead power lines, and unstable slopes. A safe work zone must be established with warning signs and barriers. The area must be cleared of any obstructions or debris.

8. Safe Work Procedure Steps

Perform a Hazard Assessment: Conduct a thorough hazard assessment of the work area, identifying potential hazards such as underground utilities, overhead power lines, and unstable slopes. Document the assessment and implement appropriate control measures.
Ensure Proper Training and Competency: Ensure all workers have received adequate training on the safe operation of equipment, use of manual tools, and hazard awareness. Verify competency before allowing workers to perform tasks.
Prepare the Work Area: Clear the work area of any obstructions, debris, or hazards that could interfere with the work. Establish a safe work zone with warning signs and barriers.
Inspect Equipment and Tools: Inspect all equipment and tools before use to ensure they are in good working condition. Replace or repair any damaged or defective items.
Wear Appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Wear all required PPE, including hard hat, safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection, and safety boots. Ensure PPE fits properly and is in good condition.
Operate Brush Clearing Equipment Safely: Start the unit on firm ground or other solid surfaces in an open area. Maintain good balance and a secure footing when operating.
Use Manual Tools Safely: Use the correct tool for the job and use it safely, following all established procedures. Maintain a safe distance from other workers and equipment.
Maintain Equipment Safely: Block machinery securely so it cannot roll or shift when repairs are being made. Use a piece of cardboard to test hydraulic hoses for leaks. Always shut off the engine before servicing a hydraulic system. Never inspect hydraulic hoses with your bare hands. Even pinhole leaks have enough force to penetrate skin with hydraulic fluid. Get medical attention immediately if this happens.
Store Tools and Equipment Properly: Put tools away when the job is finished. Removing dirt and ensuring they are dry will help prevent tools from rusting. Store tools and equipment in a safe, organized manner so that workers can access them easily and without injury. If stored in a truck, van, etc., they should be stored securely so they do not fall or shift position during transport. While tools are not in use, place them where other workers cannot be hurt by them. (For example, do not leave rakes on the ground with the tines pointing up. Do not leave tools on a ladder or scaffold.)
Take Regular Rest Breaks: Take regular rest breaks to avoid fatigue and heat stress. Drink plenty of water and seek shade during hot weather.
Monitor and Adjust Work Practices: Continuously monitor the work area for hazards and adjust work practices as needed. Communicate any changes or new hazards to all workers.
Inspect and Clean Up the Work Area: Upon completion of the work, inspect the area to ensure it is left in a safe condition. Remove any debris or hazards.

9. Precautions and Safety Measures

Never operate equipment or use tools while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Be aware of expected weather conditions for the day, and plan accordingly. Have plans about where to go if severe weather hits. Know where to seek shelter in a thunderstorm (such as fully enclosed metal vehicles, with windows up or a building (not sheds).
Learn proper hand washing techniques. Wash your hands thoroughly after working or using pesticides, before eating, using the washroom, or changing tasks (using different tools and/or different locations).
Take regular rest breaks. Frequent short pauses are better than longer breaks further apart. In warm weather, take breaks in areas that are cooled, such as inside a vehicle (with the air conditioning running), or in shade where possible. Similarly, in cold weather, take breaks in areas that are warm.
When working in the heat and sun, consider working where there is shade, or create shade by setting up a shade tent.

10. Emergency Procedures

10.1 General Emergency Response

In the event of an emergency, immediately stop work and assess the situation. Ensure the safety of all personnel. Activate the emergency response plan and follow established procedures.

10.2 Specific Emergency Scenarios

Fire or explosion: Evacuate the area immediately and move to a safe location. Contact emergency services (911) and provide them with the location and nature of the fire. Do not attempt to extinguish the fire unless you are trained and equipped to do so.
Serious injury or illness: Administer first aid to the injured person and call for medical assistance. Do not move the injured person unless there is an immediate danger. Document the incident and report it to the supervisor.
Contact with underground utilities or overhead power lines: Evacuate the area and contact the utility company immediately. Do not approach downed power lines or attempt to move them.
Chemical spill or release: Contain the spill and prevent it from spreading. Use appropriate PPE and spill control materials. Report the spill to the supervisor and follow established spill response procedures.

10.3 Emergency Contact Information

Emergency contact information should be readily available on site. This includes phone numbers for emergency services (911), the site supervisor, and the company's health and safety department.

11. Incident Reporting and Investigation

All incidents, near misses, and injuries must be reported to the supervisor immediately. The supervisor will then complete an incident report and submit it to the health and safety department.

The health and safety department will investigate all reported incidents to determine the root causes and contributing factors. The investigation will involve interviewing witnesses, reviewing documentation, and inspecting the work area. A written report will be prepared outlining the findings and recommendations for corrective actions.

Approved by: [NAME AND POSITION]

Date: [APPROVAL DATE]