2re-Shift Procedure

• Inspection:

   

  • Check all tools (hand pruners, hedge trimmers, loppers, saws) for sharpness and proper functionality.

  • Inspect the area for obstacles, hazards, or wildlife before starting.

  • Identify plant species to determine the correct trimming techniques.

  • Ensure power equipment (if used) is fueled, lubricated, and in working order.

• Preparation:

   

  • Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves, safety glasses, ear protection (for power tools), and sturdy footwear.

  • Mark off work areas to prevent pedestrian interference.

  • Plan cutting strategy based on plant type and health.

  • Have a disposal plan for cuttings.

 

Operation

• General Trimming Guidelines:

   

  • Avoid over-pruning; remove no more than 1/3 of a plant’s growth in one session.

  • Make clean cuts at an angle to prevent water pooling and disease.

  • Disinfect pruning tools between plants to prevent disease spread.

• Techniques for Common Central Minnesota Plants:

   

  Deciduous Shrubs (e.g., Lilac, Dogwood, Spirea, Hydrangea)

  • Use hand pruners or loppers for selective branch removal.

  • Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches to improve air circulation.

  • For overgrown shrubs, use renewal pruning by cutting 1/3 of the oldest stems to the ground.

  • Hydrangeas: Trim based on variety (smooth and panicle types bloom on new wood, prune in early spring; bigleaf and oakleaf bloom on old wood, prune after flowering).

   

• Evergreen Shrubs (e.g., Arborvitae, Boxwood, Juniper, Yew)

  • Trim lightly in early spring or late summer to shape the plant without overcutting.

  • Avoid cutting into old wood that lacks green growth, as these areas may not regrow.

  • Hand-shears work best for a natural look; power trimmers are suitable for formal hedges.

   

• Small Trees (e.g., Maple, Oak, Crabapple, Serviceberry)

  • Trim in late winter to prevent disease spread.

  • Remove suckers, water sprouts, and crossing branches to maintain strong structure.

  • Avoid topping trees; instead, use thinning cuts to reduce density and maintain shape.

   

• Ornamental Grasses (e.g., Karl Foerster, Little Bluestem, Switchgrass)

  • Cut back to 4-6 inches above ground in early spring before new growth emerges.

  • Use hedge trimmers or sharp hand pruners for clean cuts.

  • Bundle stems together before cutting to simplify cleanup.

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Post-Shift Procedure

• Cleanup and Disposal:

   

  • Collect and properly dispose of all cuttings.

  • If chipping, ensure chips are used for mulch or disposed of correctly.

  • Leave the site clean and free of tripping hazards.

• Tool Maintenance:

   

  • Clean, disinfect, and sharpen pruning tools before storage.

  • Check power equipment for maintenance needs.

  • Store tools in a dry, secure area.

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Safety Guidelines

• Always wear PPE, including gloves, safety glasses, and hearing protection for powered equipment.

• Do not use power trimmers above shoulder height; use a pole saw or ladder if necessary.

• Be cautious of hidden obstacles, power lines, or uneven ground while trimming.

• Never work near active bee nests or wildlife hiding in dense shrubs.

• Avoid overexertion; take breaks and hydrate regularly.

 

Emergency Procedures

• Injury:

   

  • Stop work immediately and administer first aid.

  • Seek medical attention for deep cuts, puncture wounds, or eye injuries.

  • Report all injuries to a supervisor.

• Equipment Malfunction:

   

  • Turn off power tools before inspecting or repairing.

  • Do not attempt repairs beyond basic troubleshooting; notify maintenance personnel if needed.

• Environmental Hazards:

   

  • If weather conditions (high winds, lightning, extreme cold) become hazardous, suspend work.

  • Follow emergency protocols for heat exhaustion or frostbite prevention.

 

Training and Compliance

• Workers must be trained in proper trimming techniques and tool safety.

• Periodic refresher training should be conducted.

• Operators must adhere to company policies and local regulations regarding tree and shrub maintenance.