Greenhouse Safety

Regular employment safety regulations apply to jobs in greenhouses.

Personal greenhouses and agricultural business greenhouses both carry potential hazards, including toxic agricultural chemical usage, possible dangerous machines or tools, possible mold and mildew problems and heavy lifting. Proper safety measures may prevent health problems and injuries from a potentially risky greenhouse environment.

Pesticide Safety

Greenhouse workers use pesticides, which pose health risks for humans when inhaled. According to the University of Nebraska at Lincoln, the EPA requires greenhouse owners to label pesticides and areas sprayed with pesticides to alert workers to their presence. Workers should have proper training before using pesticides. Proper ventilation and safety equipment---sometimes including respirators---are recommended by the University of Tennessee Agricultural Extension Service.

Ventilation and Sanitation

Ventilation not only removes pesticide from greenhouse air, but it also helps get rid of mold and mildew problems, according to Washington State University's office of environmental health and safety. Mold and mildew can grow in unventilated greenhouses and in uncleaned air conditioning or heating units. According to the EPA, mold causes a variety of health concerns, including allergies, asthma and respiratory problems.

Tool Safety

Some greenhouse tools, such as manual plant clippers, saws and electric hedge trimmers have sharp edges. The School of Natural Resources of the University of Nebraska at Lincoln recommends that workers wear gloves when handling equipment with sharp edges. Safety goggles also help protect the eyes from debris that can fly off of electric plant trimmers. Employers should train employees in the safe usage of any greenhouse tools.

Lifting Safety

Greenhouse workers often lift heavy potted plants or heavy equipment. Improper lifting techniques may cause back and wrist injuries, and Mississippi State University's Coastal Research & Extension Center provides videos on proper greenhouse lifting techniques. Some safe lifting tips include bending at the knees instead of the waist when picking items up off the ground and avoiding rotating at the waist while carrying heavy items.

OSHA Requirements

Occupational Safety and Health Administration workplace requirements apply to greenhouse work environments. Since greenhouses have many aisles, OSHA requirements that aisles remain clear of debris apply to greenhouses. The OSHA also requires that workplace floors remain clear of dangerous debris, like nails and large splinters. These regulations also help maintain safety in privately owned personal greenhouses, because they allow for quick evacuation in cause of emergencies.

References

• University of Nebraska at Lincoln: Shop and Greenhouse Safety
• University of Tennessee Agricultural Extension Service: Using Pesticides in Greenhouses
• Washington State University: Greenhouse and Growth Chamber Technician
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency: Mold Resources
• Mississippi State University: Nursery and Greenhouse Safety: Worker Training

Resources

• Occupational Safety and Health Administration: General Requirements