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Procedure
1.1 Pre-Shift Preparation
Check Weather Reports: Review the forecast for rain, temperature, and soil moisture conditions to determine the best time for dethatching.
Inspect Equipment: Perform a walk-around check of the Dethatcher to ensure that the tines are in good condition and securely attached. Examine cutting units for proper operation and adjust settings as needed.
Load Supplies: Stock up on fuel, oil, and any necessary maintenance tools or replacement parts. Secure all attachments and additional tools in your service vehicle.
1.2 Dethatching Operations
Arrival at the Site: Equip all necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) including gloves, safety glasses, and sturdy footwear. Conduct a quick site survey to identify obstacles (rocks, debris, irrigation components) that could interfere with dethatching. Flag irrigation heads or boxes.
Dethatcher Setup: Verify that all mechanical components are free of obstructions and that the equipment is calibrated for even coverage. Connect to a tractor and adjust tine depth based on turf conditions.
Dethatching Technique: Start dethatching in a systematic pattern, overlapping passes slightly to ensure uniform coverage without over-stressing the turf. Avoid operating when the soil is excessively wet or dry. For heavily thatched areas, make additional passes as needed, but be cautious to prevent excessive turf damage.
Post-Dethatching Cleanup: Collect the debris with a bagger mower for the composting site. Ensure that any debris or excess material is cleared from walkways and landscaped areas.
Complete Job in Jobber: Once the dethatching is finished, mark the job as complete in the Jobber app and record any observations or follow-up recommendations.
1.3 Post-Shift Procedures
Inspect Equipment: Perform a post-shift inspection of the Dethatcher to check for wear, damage, or clogging. Clean the tines and remove any accumulated thatch or debris. Refuel the equipment and perform any necessary minor maintenance.
Report Issues: Document any equipment malfunctions, maintenance needs, or incidents that occurred during the operation. Report issues to your supervisor promptly.
Safety Guidelines
Operating Safety: Always wear appropriate PPE and operate equipment at safe speeds, especially on uneven or compacted surfaces. Remain aware of bystanders, pets, and obstacles while operating the dethatcher.
Property Safety: Exercise caution around irrigation systems, garden beds, and other sensitive landscaping features to avoid unintentional damage. Follow client-specific instructions regarding property care.
Employee Safety: Take regular breaks to prevent fatigue during extended periods of work. Stay hydrated and adjust for environmental conditions such as heat or humidity. Use proper lifting techniques when handling equipment and supplies.
Emergency Procedures
Accidents or Equipment Failure: Immediately stop operations if you experience equipment failure or an accident. Secure all equipment and notify your supervisor right away. Use hazard signs or cones as needed to alert others of the situation.
Severe Weather Conditions: Monitor weather updates closely. If severe conditions (heavy rain, high winds, thunderstorms) develop, cease operations and secure all equipment. Follow supervisor instructions and prioritize safety over completing the job.