USING LANDSCAPING EQUIPMENT
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330-CAT-01-IADO © 2025, Workplace Safety & Prevention Services (WSPS)
1 877 494 WSPS (9777) | 905 614 1400 | WSPS.CA
3) Earth Compactors
What Can Happen
Cut or crushed toes or other body parts
Hearing loss
Eye injuries
Numbness in hands
White finger disease
Illness or death from carbon monoxide or
nitrous oxide poisoning
Safe Work Guidelines
Before Use
Only trained operators should be allowed to operate earth compactors
Fill the fuel tank only up to the ¾ level
Make sure surface being compacted is stable and will not cave in
Keep other workers and bystanders away from the work area
During Use
Use a mechanical lifting device or ask another person to help you lift a compactor; attach safety
straps if mechanically lifting a compactor more than 60cm (2ft) off the ground
Keep your feet clear of the machine
Grasp the machine lightly but securely; let it – not your back – do the work
Position your body to prevent contact with the hot parts of the engine
After Use
Shut off the engine and disconnect the spark plug wire before making adjustments or repairs (except
a carburetor adjustment), and before leaving the compactor unattended
Store a jumping-jack type of compactor upright
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