1. KENNEDY B. SADORRA - ARBOLEDA NHS - ALCALA, PANGASINAN
CHECK NURSERY TOOLS,
MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT
AND MANUAL HANDLING
PROCEDURES AND
TECHNIQUES
Agricultural Crop Production 9
QUARTER III – Module 2
2. Introduction
After selecting tools, materials and
equipment, checking of these are very
essential. Garden tools are probably the
most neglected of tools. We use them,
abuse them, and put them away dirty and
wet only to see them rust and lose their
effectiveness over time.
But with proper maintenance and a little
time spent, your tools can last and be
effective for many years to come
KENNEDY B. SADORRA - ARBOLEDA NHS - ALCALA, PANGASINAN
3. CHECK NURSERY TOOLS, MATERIALS AND
IMPLEMENTS
Machinery breakdowns are always
costly. But they are especially costly
during planting and harvests, when
getting seed in the ground and grain
out of the field in a timely fashion are
critical to maximizing yield.
KENNEDY B. SADORRA - ARBOLEDA NHS - ALCALA, PANGASINAN
4. TIPS ON HOW YOU CAN PREVENT
PROBLEMS
1. Not reading the operator's manual
Reading the operator's manual is important,
because it tells you how to set the machine
and what parts to check before you take it
to the field. However, it is one step that
many owners fail to do thoroughly.
KENNEDY B. SADORRA - ARBOLEDA NHS - ALCALA, PANGASINAN
5. The operator's manual also describes how
to fix certain problems once they happen
so that owners can troubleshoot the
problem themselves without having to
take more time to wait for a technician.
However, many farmers may forget to
check the troubleshooting section, which
can cost them even more time out of the
field.
KENNEDY B. SADORRA - ARBOLEDA NHS - ALCALA, PANGASINAN
6. 2. Improper maintenance
It is important to grease a machine properly
and on a timely basis. “Sometimes farmers or
their employees will miss some grease or lube
locations on a new machine because they
didn't go through all the lube locations the
first time with the owner's manual out when
there's a breakdown due to no lubrication, that
is part of improper maintenance.”
KENNEDY B. SADORRA - ARBOLEDA NHS - ALCALA, PANGASINAN
7. Other maintenance mistakes are failing to oil
chains, check gearboxes regularly, and replace
belts when they start to show excessive wear
instead of waiting for them to break. “Another
big one under proper maintenance is to do a
general inspection of the machine at the
beginning of the day, like checking engine and
transmission oil levels daily or making sure the
wheels are straight and tight.
KENNEDY B. SADORRA - ARBOLEDA NHS - ALCALA, PANGASINAN
8. 3. Poor electrical connections
“This is a big cause of breakdowns with today's
newer machinery and is a hard one for owners
to try to prevent “But there are some small
things they can do.” For example, you can
clean away dust and dirt in areas where
connectors are located. When cleaning, use
compressed air instead of water to keep
moisture away from the wires.
KENNEDY B. SADORRA - ARBOLEDA NHS - ALCALA, PANGASINAN
9. 4. Overrunning machine's capability
A lot of farmers run machines to
maximum performance or at the top of
the engineering curve for which the
machine was designed. “They just really
run it hard to about where it is ready to
snort or puke out.”
KENNEDY B. SADORRA - ARBOLEDA NHS - ALCALA, PANGASINAN
10. Overrunning the machine puts a strain on
all the 2 drives and makes breakdowns
much more likely to occur. You should find
where a machine's maximum performance
level is and then “pull it back a hair” so
that you are not running it at maximum
constantly.
KENNEDY B. SADORRA - ARBOLEDA NHS - ALCALA, PANGASINAN
11. 5. Not replacing worn parts when needed
Many times, when a part on a machine breaks,
farmers replace just the part that broke or
failed, but fail to check or replace other parts
that may have caused the initial failure.
Examples include replacing a drive chain when
the sprocket was shot or replacing a belt when
maybe the pulley was bad
KENNEDY B. SADORRA - ARBOLEDA NHS - ALCALA, PANGASINAN
12. By replacing only the broken part, you will
temporarily fix the problem but will likely
have another breakdown soon because you
did not fix all the worn parts. These
additional parts are more expensive to fix.
However, you will save money by spending
a little more on parts up front because it
will cut down on the number of breakdowns
later on.
KENNEDY B. SADORRA - ARBOLEDA NHS - ALCALA, PANGASINAN
13. 6. Tightener Misalignment
Tighteners that are misaligned or at an angle
and not tracking straight to the belt or chain in
relation to the main drives are another
problem. This puts tension on the belt or chain
and can cause it to break or wear excessively.
You need to watch for misalignment and fix it,
which may mean replacing worn bushings in the
tightener pivot that may be pushing the belt or
chain sideways.
KENNEDY B. SADORRA - ARBOLEDA NHS - ALCALA, PANGASINAN
14. 7. Improper storage
This problem applies especially to combines
and planters. For example, often a farmer will
park the combine in the shed immediately after
harvest and leave it there until the following
harvest. “The combine will have corn, dirt and
chaff built up alongside a lot of the electrical
connections, or dust and debris sitting on
chains,” Gierach explains. “It is not the best
way to be storing them.”
KENNEDY B. SADORRA - ARBOLEDA NHS - ALCALA, PANGASINAN
15. The problem is that debris will attract
rodents, which will often nest inside or
gnaw at wires. The dust itself can
interfere with electrical connections. He
suggests cleaning around all electrical
connections and other places where
debris is built up before storing the
machine. Using compressed air is usually
the best way to do this.
KENNEDY B. SADORRA - ARBOLEDA NHS - ALCALA, PANGASINAN
16. 8. Improper weather-related use
Sometimes farmers running machines in wet,
muddy weather. That can put a strain on the
machines, especially combines, because they
are not designed for it. “Running real wet,
tough material through the combine could
break shafts or plug up the machine and that
puts a strain on everything from feeder house
chains to shafts to bearings and pulleys.”
KENNEDY B. SADORRA - ARBOLEDA NHS - ALCALA, PANGASINAN
17. Running tractors in poor weather
conditions also can result in
problems. “For example, mud
packed in between dual wheels,
which can result in premature
wear on the tire sidewalls if you do
not clean that out between the
wheels before it hardens.
KENNEDY B. SADORRA - ARBOLEDA NHS - ALCALA, PANGASINAN
18. PROPER TOOL STORAGE
When storing your tools, keep them off the
ground so they’re not exposed to moisture
on your garage or shed floor. Hanging racks
like the one pictured are a convenient way
to hang several long-handled tools in one
small area. They also help prevent damage
to sharpened edges.
KENNEDY B. SADORRA - ARBOLEDA NHS - ALCALA, PANGASINAN
19. For smaller tools, try using a pegboard system
to hang your tools. Not only will it keep your
tools off the ground, but it will help you with
good tool organization. If each tool has a space,
it’s more likely that the tool will get put away
after use. A peg board system also helps you
identify if you have any missing tools. If a peg is
empty, you know to take another jog around the
yard before calling it a night.
KENNEDY B. SADORRA - ARBOLEDA NHS - ALCALA, PANGASINAN
20. CLEAN AND DRY TOOLS
Because most garden tools are exposed to dirt
and moisture, this is the first place to start
when it comes time for tool maintenance.
Cleaning and drying your garden tools will keep
them in good working order. For shovels, rakes
and trowels that come in contact with soil, wash
the dirt off with the strong spray from your
hose.
KENNEDY B. SADORRA - ARBOLEDA NHS - ALCALA, PANGASINAN
21. If the dirt is caked on, keep a brush nearby
for a good scrubbing. Most importantly, dry
your tools thoroughly before putting them
away. I installed a hook in my garage near
my garden tools so I could keep an old towel
handy for drying. You will also want to be
sure to wipe down smaller tools, like pruners
and shears, before putting them away.
KENNEDY B. SADORRA - ARBOLEDA NHS - ALCALA, PANGASINAN
22. This will help you remove any moisture, as
well as sap, from the blades. Turpentine is
an effective solvent for removing stubborn
sap. Remember, be careful as you wipe the
blades as they are very sharp. And once
again, be sure to properly dry your tool
before storing.
KENNEDY B. SADORRA - ARBOLEDA NHS - ALCALA, PANGASINAN
23. PREVENT RUST
While proper storing, cleaning and drying are
important to the condition of your tool, it’s still
important to prevent rust. The most effective
way to prevent rust is to provide some type of
protective coating to the surface. Given the high
cost of quality garden tools, it’s important to
take this step to ensure many productive hours
in the garden.
KENNEDY B. SADORRA - ARBOLEDA NHS - ALCALA, PANGASINAN
24. GENERAL TOOL MAINTENANCE
Some general maintenance is also handy
for keeping your garden tools in good
shape. There are several tips we
recommend:
KENNEDY B. SADORRA - ARBOLEDA NHS - ALCALA, PANGASINAN
25. 1. For wood-handled tools, sand the
handle if it becomes rough. This will
help prevent splinters. And for all
wood-handled tools, apply a light
coating of boiled linseed oil to help
prevent the wood from drying out and
cracking.
KENNEDY B. SADORRA - ARBOLEDA NHS - ALCALA, PANGASINAN
26. 2. You will want to apply some type of
lubricant to your pruners, loppers, and
similar tools. This will ensure smooth
operation of moving parts and will also
help prevent rust from forming.
KENNEDY B. SADORRA - ARBOLEDA NHS - ALCALA, PANGASINAN
27. 3. Remove rust that has already formed.
Because many of us have not practiced
proper tool maintenance, we’re probably
facing a garage full of rusty tools. If that’s
the case for you, do not worry, there is still
hope. There are several types of rust
removal products available.
KENNEDY B. SADORRA - ARBOLEDA NHS - ALCALA, PANGASINAN
28. KEEP YOUR TOOLS SHARP
Another key to garden tool maintenance is
keeping your tools sharp. Sharp tools not only
are more effective, but they reduce your
frustration. A sharp pruner will cut through a
branch with ease, and a sharp shovel will dig
into hard clay soils. Sharpening garden tools
requires just a two simple tools, a mill file and
a small handheld sharpener.
KENNEDY B. SADORRA - ARBOLEDA NHS - ALCALA, PANGASINAN
29. Even tools that have been neglected can be
nursed back into shape. Proper storage,
cleaning and drying, general maintenance,
and sharpening will result in more effective
tools and more productive time in the
garden.
KENNEDY B. SADORRA - ARBOLEDA NHS - ALCALA, PANGASINAN
30. CLEANING YOUR GARDEN TOOLS
You want your tools to stay clean and looking
good. Regular cleaning and maintenance will
keep your tools sharp. It may also make them
rust quicker. So what you’ll want to do is clean
excess dirt and rust off of them with water. It
helps to dry and oil your tools after use to
keep them in good condition. Scrape and wipe
off extra stubborn dirt and rust.
KENNEDY B. SADORRA - ARBOLEDA NHS - ALCALA, PANGASINAN
31. Cleaning your tools can be done with an old
towel. You can also clean off some dirt after
use (if they don’t need a thorough cleaning)
by wiping them through and on grass. If your
tools are in really bad shape just drying
them will not be adequate. If the hinges on
your tools are squeaking then bolts should
be tightened and a lubricant applied.
KENNEDY B. SADORRA - ARBOLEDA NHS - ALCALA, PANGASINAN
32. SHARPENING DULL GARDEN TOOLS
Dull tools don’t work as well as they should.
Gardening tools can be quiet dangerous if they are
not looked after. They can make bad or dull cuts, or
not make cuts at all. If you have a dull tool, you
don’t have to buy another one. You just need to
sharpen them. Always make sure your tools are
clean before you sharpen them. This will help them
sharpen better and it will keep your tools for
sharpening safe from dirt and rust as well.
KENNEDY B. SADORRA - ARBOLEDA NHS - ALCALA, PANGASINAN
33. You can use sharpening blocks a stones or a
file to sharpen most tools. You can also
sharp knifes and scissors with a file. You
can use a file or sharpening stone for
sharpening your hoe. You can also use
sharpening stones or metal files for
sharpening things such as shovels and
rakes. Use a file to sharpen your hedge or
pruning shears.
KENNEDY B. SADORRA - ARBOLEDA NHS - ALCALA, PANGASINAN
34. MANUAL HANDLING PROCEDURES AND
TECHNIQUES
Manual handling covers a wide range of
activities including: lifting, pushing, pulling,
holding, restraining, throwing and carrying. It
includes repetitive task such as packing, typing,
assembling, cleaning and sorting, using hand
tools, operating machinery and equipment, and
handling and restraining animals.
KENNEDY B. SADORRA - ARBOLEDA NHS - ALCALA, PANGASINAN
35. Not all manual handling tasks are
hazardous, but because most jobs involve
some form of manual handling, most
workers are at some risk of manual handling
injury. Good posture and lifting techniques
can help reduce the risks, but research
indicates that making changes to workplace
design is the most effective way to prevent
manual handling injury.
KENNEDY B. SADORRA - ARBOLEDA NHS - ALCALA, PANGASINAN
36. GUIDELINES/GENERAL SAFETY TIPS FOR
OPERATING TRACTORS
1. Know your tractor and how to use it safely.
Regularly review the safety precautions in your
operator’s manual.
2. Prepare for tractor work by inspecting the vehicle
and wearing appropriate clothing.
3. Ensure that new and inexperienced workers are
properly trained in tractor operation.
4. Never allow riders. A tractor should only have one
person on board.
KENNEDY B. SADORRA - ARBOLEDA NHS - ALCALA, PANGASINAN
37. 5. Teach children to use tractors only after they
have developed the strength, size, and maturity
to operate tractor safely.
6. Install an approved roll-over protective
structure (ROPS and seatbelt on any tractor that
is not equipped with these features. ROPS
prevent tractor turnover injuries, but if only the
seatbelt is on.
7. Always wear a seatbelt, when driving a tractor
equipped with ROPS.
KENNEDY B. SADORRA - ARBOLEDA NHS - ALCALA, PANGASINAN
38. 8. Disengage drivers and turn the engines
off before leaving the tractor unattended.
9. Keep yourself and others away from
moving parts.
10. Hitch loads only to the drawbar. When
using three-point rear hitches, add front
end weights to maintain stability and
control steering.
11. Never bypass start the engine.
KENNEDY B. SADORRA - ARBOLEDA NHS - ALCALA, PANGASINAN
39. GUIDELINES/ TIPS FOR TRACTOR DRIVING SAFETY
1. Watch where you are going at all times. Be
sure that everyone is out of way before moving.
2. Watch for and avoid obstacle, ditches,
embankments and holes.
3. Slow down when turning, crossing slopes or
driving on rough slick or muddy surfaces.
4. It is safer to backup an incline.
KENNEDY B. SADORRA - ARBOLEDA NHS - ALCALA, PANGASINAN
40. 5. Apply power slowly when pulling a heavy load.
6. Lock the brake pedals together for single
action breaking.
KENNEDY B. SADORRA - ARBOLEDA NHS - ALCALA, PANGASINAN
41. GENERAL TIPS FOR PREVENTING BACK INJURY
Ways to reduce back pain and prevent injury include:
1. Warm up cold muscles thoroughly before engaging
in any manual work.
2. Lift and carry loads correctly, by keeping the load
close to the body and lifting with your thigh muscles.
3. Get help to lift or carry a heavy load whenever
possible, using another worker or appropriate
mechanical aids.
KENNEDY B. SADORRA - ARBOLEDA NHS - ALCALA, PANGASINAN
42. 4. Organize your work are to reduce the
amount of bending, twisting and stretching
required.
5. Maintain correct posture.
6. Take frequent brakes.
7. Cool down after heavy work with gentle,
sustained stretches.
KENNEDY B. SADORRA - ARBOLEDA NHS - ALCALA, PANGASINAN
43. 8. Exercise regularly to strengthen muscles
and ligaments.
9. Lose any excess body fats.
10. Be aware that mattresses that are too
hard or too soft can contribute to back
ache.
KENNEDY B. SADORRA - ARBOLEDA NHS - ALCALA, PANGASINAN
44. LIFTING HEAVY LOADS
General suggestions
When carting hay, use mechanical aids to
lift and stack the bales. Whenever possible,
use wheelbarrows, trolleys, conveyors and
other equipment to move heavy loads. Ask
someone to help if you have to move a
heavy load by hand. Wear supportive back
braces.
KENNEDY B. SADORRA - ARBOLEDA NHS - ALCALA, PANGASINAN