Getting the job done right doesn’t only encompass the completion of a project. An exceptional job goes much beyond those parameters. And that’s what you’ll find with Lanracorp, that something extra. When considering the range of specialized, committed, and continually evolving work that goes into Right of Way (ROW) and industrial site maintenance and clearing, clients shouldn’t settle for anything less than the best for their projects. While working, we make safety in the field a priority.
First and foremost, being exceptional builds off one core component: Unanimous, prioritized safety in the field. If that’s not ground zero for a ROW clearing and maintenance team, then they’re doing it wrong. When people are involved in hands-on jobs, especially ones that present life-threatening hazards, there must be a safety-centric plan of attack. Here are 6 important steps towards occupational welfare in the field for ROW and industrial site clearing crews. Instead of doing them one at a time, workers should utilize the steps together, seamlessly. This is important before, during, and after every job.
Step 1 Acquire and Maintain Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
One of the largest components of safety involves the use and maintenance of adequate PPE (personal protective equipment) that meets national standards. For our maintenance crews, hard hats, full-cover face or eyewear, coveralls, respiratory protection, gloves, and boots are mandatory.
Step 2 Harness Industry Experience and Training
Just because someone has a theoretical idea of how to do their job, doesn’t mean they have what it takes to complete it effectively. Our ROW clearing and maintenance teams have years of comprehensive experience in their trades. Besides experience, our internal specialists provide ample amounts of (ongoing) training before newer workers even step onto the site. This involves extensive instruction on safety protocols, the use of machinery, and related equipment.
From the moment our workers arrive, to the moment they drive away, they’re prepared and ready to go. The entire team also works together to perform routine safety audits throughout projects. We put this process in place to hold everyone accountable for meeting Lanracorp’s high standards. During audits, the manager collects data on project results, including employee performance. Results are thoroughly documented and reviewed because a great team is always striving to be better.
Step 3 Use the Right Equipment, Machinery, and Technology
Educated use of adequate tools and machinery is the next piece in the occupational safety puzzle. Not to mention, the best tools for the job naturally will perform effectively. Use GIS mapping and drones to visually inspect the site and quickly identify hazards before physically entering the area. Adding to that, Lanracorp knows uptime on respectable equipment also maximizes productivity. To avoid any dips in quality, we always keep a strict equipment maintenance schedule and replace outdated tools when appropriate. To minimize injury risk, employees can also make sure they:
- Install adequate guards on all mechanical equipment to shield from mechanical parts that are moving, pointed, powered, or hot.
- Adequately secure and maintain cutting tools. This means always keeping them sharp, shaped, and covered or sheathed unless directly in use.
- Use specific uniforms and PPE for designated tools. Certain project parameters require different precautions.
Our ROW clearing and maintenance crews have all the equipment they need to do almost any job, in any place, safely. Our 5 favorite pieces of innovative machinery that benefit safety in the field include:
1) Jarraffs
All-terrain tree trimmer.
2) Marsh Masters
Facilitates clearing and cutting foliage in areas that aren’t traversable by foot.
3) Remote Control Brush Mower
Enables safe weed or brush cutting on hillsides or uneven terrain by allowing employees to control machinery remotely.
4) Forestry Mulchers
Can often replace employee need for a saw, forestry mulchers remove employees from direct contact with related hazards.
5) Back Yard Arborist Lifts
This machine can reach up to 90 feet and is meant to lift workers up into the trees for utilities for related maintenance. It can self-level on uneven slopes, drive through a backyard gate, and expand as needed.
Step 4 Follow and Enforce Standard Operating Procedures
Successful ROW teams must be diligent on up-to-date permits, easements, and their understanding of all related mandates. Each state has legislation regarding environment preparation and protection, maintenance, and procedure. Make sure everyone:
- Plans out their part in the project and communicates it adequately, internally and to clients. Make sure everyone is aware of expiration dates, new mandates, terms, processes, and occupational as well as environmental hazards involved.
- Understands, retains, and utilizes all manufacturer’s instructions on operations, maintenance, and equipment.
- Observes and obeys traffic and work zone safety precautions.
Make sure environmental maintenance crews are following the laws, they’re always changing. Most importantly, they keep industrial, commercial, and residential communities safe when followed correctly.
Step 5 Utilize Clear Communication
Efficient communication between teams as well as the client are just as important as everything else when it comes to safety in the field. While this may not seem like much to some people, in an industry as technical and involved as Right of Way Clearing and industrial site maintenance, clear communication is vital. The importance of concise communication between a business and its client can sometimes get lost in some trades. Not at Lanracorp. If the client has questions or issues, our team will ensure they’re taken care of. They should never have unanswered questions, feel confused, or lost with us. We get it, not everyone knows the jargon. Helping clients understand the project at hand is also part of the job.
Step 6 Remain Vigilant
Our workers understand the importance of staying vigilant and always being present. While this may seem obvious to some, it doesn’t always happen like it should. Be aware of passersby when working in public spaces and don’t let spectators stand or watch near machinery where they could get hurt. Employees should always be aware of what’s happening around them and their coworkers.
Seemingly easy things like staying hydrated, taking routine breaks, and keeping an eye on teammates’ exertion can mean the difference between heat exhaustion and finishing the job. Lanracorp values balance and never sacrifices speed for employee health.
Next Steps
Safety in the field should be the first priority on every ROW clearing crew’s list. Status begins at the top of the hierarchy and spreads throughout the company by example. Once teams exercise due diligence in this area, success usually follows. Just ask us. Our clearing teams haven’t had a safety incident in over 13 years, so you can trust the process.
Looking for some ROW maintenance or clearing? Lanracorp will take care of your Right of Way… the right way. We firmly believe in quality and safety. Always.