Mower hammer blade changing and handling is a common practice for anyone who works in vegetation management or land clearing. It is a job that has many dangers. Safety precautions are important to avoid incidences of accidents besides protecting the equipment and the operator. This article provides basic safety measures to be followed when operating on flail mower hammer blades or when replacing them.
Learn the Significance of Proper Blade Handling
Mower hammer blades are usually constructed from high-carbon steel or carbide. They are usually very sturdy. They are very heavy and have sharp edges and this makes it very dangerous if one is not very careful. In any maintenance or replacement work, it is important to understand the risks that are involved and then proceed with the work. It is advisable to wear gloves on your hands. The gloves should be cut-resistant. It will prevent cuts and injuries from the blades. Further, it is advisable to wear steel-toed boots to protect your feet in case a blade is dropped. It is also necessary to carry the blades in such a manner that the edges are not exposed and can easily come into contact with other objects.
Safety Comes First When Replacing Blades
Mower hammer blades should be replaced only when the equipment is off and no longer connected to any power source. It is important to avoid accidental startups which may cause serious accidents to the people in the vicinity. To enhance safety, apply the brake or lock the blades in a position that they do not move when operating the machine. Secondly, ensure that you use the right tools for the right task. The right wrenches, sockets, and other necessary tools will not only ease the process but will also greatly minimize the chances of slippage and wrong application of force that leads to accidents. Make sure that you are working on a stable platform and if possible, use a reliable lift to raise the mower to facilitate the access of the blades. It is recommended that one should always follow the manufacturer’s instructions while removing and installing the mower hammer blades since doing it wrongly is dangerous and can lead to the failure of equipment.
Blades and Equipment Should Be Checked Often
A routine check of the mower hammer blades and other related parts is crucial as far as safety is concerned. Before fitting new blades, the blades should be checked for any defects. Blades that are damaged can break during operation and this is dangerous to the operator as well as those around him. Also, examine the mounting of the mower and the bolts and other connections that are used. Some of the risks include loose or worn-out parts which may cause blade detachment during operation and this is dangerous. In case of any of the components, that seem to be damaged or worn out, they should be replaced before the mower is used again.
How to Dispose of Old Blades
Recycling of the old mower hammer blades is very important after replacing them with new ones. The blades even when dull still have sharp edges that are dangerous especially when handling them. Disposing of used blades should be done properly and the blades should be stored in a container until they are disposed of. Old blades should never be left where people can see them since they pose a tripping or cutting danger to other people.
Conclusion
Another aspect of the mower hammer blades that deserves a lot of consideration is how one handles and replaces them. By adhering to the following guidelines; wearing protective equipment, switching off the equipment, using appropriate tools, checking on the blades and hardware, and disposing of old blades operators can reduce the risks involved and create a safe working environment. Safety is important to avoid the occurrence of accidents affecting the operator as well as to prolong the life of the equipment and its effectiveness.