Looking After Garden Tools

After using tools, clean off any soil, grass clippings and other plant material immediately. Wipe metal parts with an oily rag and store in a dry place (see B4.9 sheds and tool storage). Pruning and cutting tools benefit from regular sharpening and oiling of the moving parts. Clean off dried sap from blades with wire wool or emery paper. Take care when using and handling tools, especially when the group is learning new techniques. Maintain a safe working distance between people using tools, eg for spades, keep a distance of at least one and half times the length of the tool’s handle.

Choose appropriate tools for the height and strength of the user. Ensure supervision at all times and adult help where needed. Carry tools handle-end upwards, eg point fork prongs downwards. Don’t carry tools over the shoulder and never run. Don’t use broken tools. Check condition before use. Wear appropriate safety clothes and footwear.

When tools are not in use for short periods in the garden, store safely

• Close tools with blades, eg use locking mechanism on secateurs.
• Push digging tools like spades and forks upright into a piece of spare ground or facing downwards and out of the way of people.
• Lean long-handled tools (non-digging) upright against a fence or shed with the handle
  touching the ground, ie the head of the rake should touch the fence or shed. Otherwise the handle could flick back if trodden on and hit the user in the face.