Match gloves, eye, and respiratory protection to hazards. Adjust for heat, noise, and sharp tools. Plan each job, then gear up with confidence always.
| Gardening task | Hazard | Key conditions | Typical PPE output |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spraying weeds along fence line | Pesticides | Exposure 4, 45 min, heat 3 | Nitrile gloves, splash goggles, respirator, long sleeves |
| Mowing dry lawn | Powered tools | Noise 4, dust 3, 60 min | Hearing protection, safety glasses, N95 mask |
| Pruning thorny shrubs | Cutting tools | Sharp risk 4, 30 min | Cut-resistant gloves, safety glasses, sturdy pants |
| Turning compost pile | Pathogens | Dust 4, exposure 3, 20 min | Nitrile gloves, N95 mask, wash-up supplies |
This calculator converts your task conditions into a 0–100 risk score. Higher values trigger stronger PPE recommendations.
When spraying herbicides or mixing concentrates, the primary route is skin and eye contact, followed by inhalation of aerosols. Select gloves by chemical resistance, use sealed goggles, and add a respirator when label guidance or drift risk is present. Replace gloves that swell, soften, or crack, and keep dedicated work clothing to prevent transfer into vehicles and homes.
Dry soil, mulch, and compost release particulates that irritate lungs and eyes, especially during raking, tilling, or turning piles. A particulate mask and wraparound eye protection reduce exposure, while dampening dusty materials limits airborne load. For compost handling, include hygiene supplies and avoid touching the face until hands and tools are cleaned.
Mowers, trimmers, and blowers create debris and sustained noise. Safety glasses shield against projectiles, and hearing protection becomes important as noise ratings rise. Wear close fitting clothing to avoid entanglement, and choose footwear with traction for uneven or wet ground. Combine PPE with pre use checks and safe distances from bystanders.
Gardening frequently occurs in direct sun, raising dehydration and heat illness risk. Use UV blocking eyewear, a wide brim hat, and breathable long sleeves, then schedule breaks in shade. Hydration planning is PPE adjacent: a water plan, electrolyte options, and awareness of dizziness or cramps help keep productivity high without compromising safety.
Consistent PPE use improves when selections are documented for common tasks and stored together near the work area. Fit checks matter for respirators and goggles, because gaps reduce performance. Train workers on donning, doffing, and disposal, and review any incident or near miss to adjust ratings and controls for the next job. Establish an inspection schedule for straps, valves, and filters, and store items away from heat and sunlight. Ensure compatibility with prescription glasses and facial hair policies. Record batch dates for cartridges to support timely replacement each season.
The score combines hazard severity, exposure, duration, and conditions. Higher scores trigger stronger controls, such as sealed eye protection, respirators, and protective clothing, while lower scores emphasize basic gloves and sturdy footwear.
Use label guidance first. A respirator is recommended when aerosols, vapors, or strong odors are present, or when drift is likely. Select the correct filter type and ensure a proper seal and fit check.
Choose gloves rated for the product, often nitrile or neoprene. Avoid thin household latex for concentrated mixes. Replace gloves if they swell, soften, tear, or become contaminated inside.
Remove gloves carefully, wash hands, and clean tools with soap and water or a suitable disinfectant. Launder work clothes separately. Replace disposable masks and avoid storing damp PPE where mold can grow.
Disposable masks should be replaced when dirty, wet, damaged, or after contaminated work. Cartridges and filters follow manufacturer guidance and exposure levels. Store respirators sealed and dry to extend service life.
Wet surfaces raise slip risk and can increase chemical or biological contact. Waterproof gloves and treaded footwear improve grip and reduce skin exposure. Adjust ratings upward when conditions change during the task.
Important Note: All the Calculators listed in this site are for educational purpose only and we do not guarentee the accuracy of results. Please do consult with other sources as well.