Program/Course

Unit of Competency
Module Title

HORTICULTURE NCII
Conduct Pre-Horticultural Farm Operations
Conduct Pre-Horticultural Farm Operations

INTRODUCTION
This module contains information, suggested learning activities, instruction and procedure in the
conduct of pre-horticultural farm operations. This module consists of three (3) learning
outcomes. Each learning outcome contains learning activities supported by instruction sheets.
Before performing the instruction, the information sheets must be read first. Learning activities
and self-check must be answered. To ascertain the competence, the teacher will assess the
knowledge and skills acquired such as the preparation of farm tools, farm implements and
simple equipment and how to perform routine operations.
LEARNING OUTCOMES AND PERFORMANCE CRITERIA
The module, entitled Conduct Pre-Horticultural Farm Operations has the following learning
outcomes and performance criteria:
LO1

Learning Outcome
Prepare tools, farm implements
and
simple
equipment
for
horticultural operations

LO2

Prepare
facilities

and

maintain

LO3

Secure
tools,
implements/equipment
facilities

farm

farm
and

Performance Criteria
1.1 Appropriate tools, farm implements and simple
equipment are identified and sorted according to
its usage
1.2 Basic pre-operative checking of tools, farm
implements and equipment is performed in
accordance with manufacturers manual
1.3 Tools with wear and corrosions are segregated
and treated according to maintenance plan and
procedures
2.1
Workplace hazards and environmental
implications associated with maintenance procedures
are controlled in line with farm requirements
2.2
Maintenance activities are performed to
maximize efficiency and effectiveness of facilities
2.3
Relevant information with regard to the
maintenance activities are identified are noted
following standard procedures
3.1 Simple repair and modifications of tools, farm
implements/equipment and facilities is conducted
following standard procedures
3.2 Preventive structures are installed during
inclement weather
3.3 Basic post-operative checks of tools, farm
implements and equipment is conducted in
accordance with manufacturers manual
3.4 Tools, farm implements and equipment are stored
according to approved practices

TECHNICAL TERMS
1.Farm tools are things used by the farmers or farm workers to perform or facilitate
manual or mechanical work.
2.Farm implement is any device that directly affects the production of agricultural
products
3..Simple equipment is machinery used in horticultural operations, especially in
vegetable production
4.Plow is a farm implement used in farming for initial cultivation of soil in preparation
for sowing seeds and planting
5.Greenhouse is a building or complex in which plants are grown
6.Farm Facilities a place, building or something designed, built, installed that make an
action, operation or activity in the farm easier
7.Standard Procedure a prescribed procedure to be followed routinely
8.Safety Practices protocols dealing with safety in connection with occupational safety
and health and may vary between industry or sectors
9.Needle stick an accidental juncture of the skin with an unsterilized instrument. Also
called needle stick injury
10.Pesticide any substance used to kill or repel or contain in plant or animal life that
are considered to be pests
11..Hazard a chance of being injured or harmed
12.Post-operative during, relating to, or denoting the period following a surgical
operation
13.Pre-operative denoting, administered in or occurring in the period before a surgical
operation
14. Tillage is an agricultural preparation of soil by mechanical agitation of various
types such as digging, stirring and overturning.
15.Power tool is a tool that is actuated by an additional power source and mechanism
other than the safely manual labour used with hand tools.
16.Maintenance involves fixing any sort of mechanical, plumbing or electrical device
should it become out of order or broken
17. Manufacturers manual instructional book or booklet that is supplied with almost all
technologically advanced consumer products, the information contained includes:
instructions on safety, set up, maintenance, regulatory, trouble shooting and warranty.

Program/Course

HORTICULTURE NCII

Unit of Competency

Conduct Pre-Horticultural Farm Operations

Module Title

Conduct Pre-Horticultural Farm Operations

Learning Outcome No. 1

Prepare tools, farm implements and simple equipment for

horticultural operations

Performance Criteria
1. Appropriate tools, farm implements and simple equipment are identified and
sorted according to its usage
2. Basic pre-operative checking of tools, farm implements and equipment is
performed in accordance with manufacturers manual
3. Tools with wear and corrosions are segregated and treated according to
maintenance plan and procedures
References:
1.Agricultural Machinery and Equipment Directory. 2006
2.The Howard Rotavator. 2007
3.Machinery Manufacturers Secondary Tillage
4.Australia Dictionary of Biography Online Edition
5.Wikipedia, the Free Encyclopedia

INFORMATION SHEET 1.1

Farm Tools, Farm Implements and Simple Equipment for Horticultural Operations
A. Farm Tools
Farm tools, defined
Farm tools are things used by the farmers or farm workers to perform or facilitate manual or
mechanical work. These are objects used as a means of accomplishing a task or purpose.
Farm tools play very important role in horticultural operation. Their availability makes the work
much easier and faster. For these tools to be more useful, one must have a good working
knowledge of farm tools before using them.
Classification of Farm Tools
Farm tools are classified as follows:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.

Cutting tools
Cultivating tools
Digging tools
Carpentry tools
Measuring tools
Transplanting tools
Plumbing tools
Harvesting tools

a. Cutting tools and its uses

A knife is used for cutting planting materials and for
performing other operations in horticulture

Pruning shear

A pruning shear is for cutting branches of planting

materials and unnecessary branches of plants

Bolo

A bolo is used for cutting tall grasses and weeds and

chopping branches of trees
An axe is used for cutting a bigger size post

b. Cultivating tools and its uses

CROW BAR
A crowbar is used for digging big holes and for
digging out big stones and stumps
PICK MATTOCK
A pick mattock is used for digging canals,
breaking hard topsoil and for pulverizing soil

GRUB HOE
A grub-hoe is used for breaking hard topsoil and
for pulverizing soil

Spade

SPADE
A spade is used for removing trash or soil,
digging canals or ditches and mixing soil media.

c. Digging tools and its uses

RAKE
A rake is used for loosening the soil, light weeding and
levelling, removing dead grass from lawns

SHOVEL
A shovel is used for digging, lifting, and moving bulk
materials such as soil, coal, gravel and sand

HAND TROWEL
A trowel is used for digging, smoothing or otherwise,
moving around small amount of viscous or particular
material

d. Carpentry tools and its uses

HAND SAW
A hand saw is used to cut pieces of wood into different
shapes in order to join the pieces together and carve a
wooden object
CHISEL
A chisel is not just for wood carvers, but it is used to clean
out joints and saw cuts
HAMMER
This tool looks roughly like the letter T. Most common
uses for hammers are to drive nails, fit parts, forge metal
and break apart objects
UTILITY KNIFE
A utility knife is used to cleanout mortise joints or scribing
wood

e. Measuring tools and its uses

TRY SQUARE
A try square is used for marking and measuring piece
of wood.

TAPE MEASURE
A tape measure or measuring tape is a flexible ruler. It
is a common measuring tool with linear measurement
markings. It measures around curves or corners.

RULER
Used in building to measure distances or rule straight
lines. It is a straightedge which contains calibrated
lines to measure distances. Desk rulers are used to
measure, to aid in drawing straight lines and as a
straight guide for cutting.
PLUMB BOB
A plumb bob is a weight, usually with a pointed tip on
the bottom that is suspended from a string and used as
a vertical reference line. This is used to ensure that
constructions are plumb or vertical. Plumb bob is used
to provide vertical datum lines for the building
measurements.

f.

Transplanting tools and its uses

HAND TROWEL
It helps in the transplanting of seedlings, for the
application of fertilizer and also for the application of
manure to the soil, it helps in loosening vegetable beds, it
can also be used for light weeding, sampling or mixing up
of soil and digging holes for the planting of seeds.
HAND FORK
It is used in mixing manure into the soil, for breaking the
surface of the soil, so that air and water, can pass easily
and it is also used for the removal of weeds on the seed
bed.
SPADE
Spade is used for different proposes. It can be used for
digging of holes and trenches around us, for leveling the
ground, for making seedbeds, ridges, mounds and heaps,
transplanting of seedlings like palm oil seedlings, turning
the soil and the mixing of manures, light weeding in the
farm and at home, mixing of cement and concrete for
farm and home structures and the digging of foundations
when constructing farm and home buildings.
WATERING CAN
It is used to apply water to crops like seedlings in a
nursery and vegetables. It is used in applying liquid
fertilizers to crops.

g. Plumbing tools and its uses

ADJUSTABLE HACK SAW FRAME
Intended to use blades of various lengths, especially those
the ends which have been broken off.
PIPE WRENCH
A wrench used for turning soft iron pipes and fittings with a
rounded surface.
ADJUSTABLE WRENCH
Used to provide grip and mechanical advantage in applying
torque to turn objects
WRENCH
An instrument for exerting a twisting strain, as in turning
bolts, nuts, screw-taps, etc.

h. Harvesting tools and its uses

HOE
Hoes are used in tilling the soil, harvesting of crops like
cassava, sweet potato and cocoyam, weeding between the
rows of crops, digging of drains, making trenches and
foundation of farm houses, and the making of ridges and
mounds.

SICKLE
Hand-held agricultural tool with a variously carved blade
typically used for harvesting grain crops or cutting succulent
forage chiefly for feeding livestock
SCYTHE
It is an agricultural tool for mowing grass or reaping crops.

B. Farm Implements
Farm Implement is any device that directly affects the production of agricultural products. It is an
article used in a given activity, serving to equip and used in the performance of a task.
PLOW
An agricultural implement used for cutting, lifting,
turning over and partly pulverizing the soil.

HARROW
An agricultural implement consisting of many spikes,
tines or discs dragged across the soil to turn most
light weeds, and scribble into the ground.

C. Simple Equipment
Simple equipment is machinery used in horticultural operations, especially in vegetable
production. They are used in land preparation and in transporting farm inputs and products.
Simple equipment needs a highly skilled operator to use.
HAND TRACTOR
This equipment is used to pull a plow and harrow in
preparing large area of land

FOUR WHEEL TRACTOR

This is used to pull disc plow and disc harrow in
preparing much bigger area of land.it is a vehicle
intended for pushing or pulling something which
cannot propel itself and often powering it too. Tractor
serves to deliver a high operative effort at slow
speeds, for the purposes of hauling a trailer or
machinery used in agriculture or construction.

WATER PUMP
Water pump is used to draw irrigation water from a
source

KNAPSACK SPRAYER
A piece of agricultural equipment used primarily to
apply herbicides, pesticides and fertilizers ti
agricultural crops.

SELF-CHECK 1.1
A. Matching Type: Match Column A to Column B
____1. Pick Mattock

a. Used for cutting branches of planting

materials and unnecessary branches of
plants
b. Used for cutting a bigger size post
c. Used for cutting planting materials and
for performing other operations in
horticulture
d. Used for watering seedlings and young
plants
e. Used for digging canals, breaking hard
topsoil and for pulverizing soil
f. Used for cleaning the ground and
leveling the topsoil
g. Used for removing trash, digging loose
soil, moving soil from one place to
another and for mixing soil media
h. Hand-held
agricultural
tool
with
variously carved blade typically used
for cutting weeds
i. Used to spray insecticides, foliar
fertlizers, fungicides and herbicides
j. Used for breaking hard topsoil and for
pulverizing soil

____2. Grub-Hoe
____3. Sickle

____4. Shovel
____5. Rake
____6. Axe
____7. Knife

____8. Sprayer

____9. Sprinkler
____10. Pruning Shears

B. ENUMERATION
1. Give at least 2 examples of: 12 points
a. Cutting tools
b. Carpentry tools
c. Transplanting tools
d. Plumbing tools
e. Harvesting tools
f. Cultivating tools
2. Give 3 examples of farm equipment (3 points)

TASK SHEET 1.1 IDENTIFICATION

DEMONSTRATING ITS USE
Farm Tools:

OF

SELECTED

FARM

TOOLS

AND

Cutting tools knife, bolo, pruning shear, axe

Cultivating tools hand trowel, hand fork
Digging tools pick mattock
Carpentry tools hammer, saw

Instructions:
1. Farm tools are placed on the table. These tools include knife, bolo, pruning shear, axe,
hand trowel, hand fork, pick mattock, hammer and saw.
2. Cut-outs on the classification of tools such as cutting tool, cultivating tool, digging tool,
carpentry tools prepared for the trainees to classify each tool
3. Trainees will perform by classifying the farm tools. Farm tools will be classified using the
label or the cut-outs
4. After classifying, uses of each tool will be tackled by the trainees
5. Selected tools will be demonstrated its use, i.e. shovel, pruning shear, hammer, bolo

Information Sheet 1.2 The Plow

PLOW
Is a farm implement used in farming for initial cultivation of soil in preparation for sowing seed in
planting.
PURPOSE
1. To turn over the upper layer of the soil, bringing fresh ingredients to the surface while
burying weeds and the remains of the previous crops, allowing them to break down.
2. Aerates the soil and allows to hold moisture better
PARTS OF A PLOW

Figure 1. Parts of a plow

Beam the part where all the other parts are attached directly or indirectly
Mouldboard is the other main part of the plow which turns over the earth previously cut by the
courter and the share. It is an extension of the share to the rear.
Frog Piece is the part attached to the lower part of the stay. Its first part is called the sole
plate. It is the frog that the mouldboard and the share are attached.
Share - one of the main parts. It cuts the slice of the earth horizontally and starts turning it
over.
Landslide is another wearing part bolted to the frog. Its purpose is to prevent wear of the frog
end of the story as a result of friction along the furrow wall.
TYPES OF PLOW
1. MOLDBOARD PLOW
A moldboard plow is an ancient plow that is still use in small farms today. It is very efficient. It
consists of a single large blade that enters the ground vertically. The plow is pulled through the

ground by horse, ox, human or tractor power. While the blade moves through the earth, it cuts,
raises, and turns the soil in one pass. If solid fertilizer is added to the field before it is plowed,
the moldboard plow will also incorporate the fertilizer into the soil.
2. REVERSIBLE PLOW
Reversible plow is another version of the moldboard type of plow. The difference is that this
type of plow uses two, four or more blades. This type of plow needs to have the power of a
tractor in order to be operated.
3. SUB-SOILING PLOW
Sub-soiling plow is another large plow that will need the power of a tractor for proper use. The
purpose of a sub-soiling plow is to break up the ground beneath the top layer of a field. This is
necessary because some modern chemicals that are used in farming cause hard crust of soil to
form under a field and this has to be broken up in order for plants to grow properly. In addition,
drainage is greatly improved by plowing a field with a sub-soiling plow.

4. DISC PLOW
Disc plow is used for the initial plowing of brush-covered fields or plowing of dry rock soil.
Farmers will sometimes refer to plowing with a disc plow as discing. This plow uses a large
concave steel disc to break up the soil. The discs are slightly inclined at a backwards angle,
which turn the soil as the ground is broken by the disc.
WHEN TO PLOW
1. If your soil is not hard, you start plowing during the dry season so that you can start
planting as soon as the rains are steady
2. On hard soils, we start plowing as soon as the rains have softened the soil. Start plowing
on the plots with heavy soils (silt and clay). Once they are very wet, they stick to the
mouldboard and make the work difficult.
HOW TO PLOW
1. The whole area of the plot has to be plowed.
2. Always work the long side of the field so that your furrows are as long as possible. You
lose less time by turning round at the end of the field.
3. Always plow across the slope! Plowing down the slope provokes damage by erosion.
4. If your field is wider than 30 meters, divide the area to be plowed into plots so as to
reduce walking at the ends of the furrow to a minimum.
DISADVANTAGES OF PLOWING
Repeated plowing can have negative effects on the soil. The organic matter of the soil
decomposes faster. The soil is losing fertility and is more susceptible to erosion.
MAINTENANCE OF THE PLOW
To save money and work more effectively, you have to maintain and care for your plow:
o
o
o
o
o

Check and tighten all bolts and nuts of your plow before starting work
Oil your plow especially bolts and nuts every week end
Grease your plow wheel regularly
Store plow in a dry place to avoid corrosion
Dont file the share of your plow too often

SELF-CHECK 1.2
A. Enumeration
1-6 Give at least 6 parts of a plow
7-10 Name 4 types of plow
11-15 Care and maintenance of a plow
B. Fill in the blanks. Select the answer from the choices below and write the answer on the
blank.
plow
slope
corrosion
negative
dry season
1. Always plow across the ______.
2. Store plow in a dry place to avoid _____.
3. Start plowing during the _______

4. Repeated plowing can have___effects to the soil.

5. ___is a farm implement used in initial cultivation of the soil

Task Sheet 1.2

1. Bring the trainees in the nearby field
2. Show one type of plow and let the trainees identify the parts and its functions.
3. Demonstrate plowing, and let the trainees perform the task.

Information Sheet 3.1

Care and Maintenance of Farm Tools and Equipment
A. Care and Maintenance of Farm Tools
1. Prior to use, always inspect farm tools for defects and damage. Check for loose, bent
or cracked tool handles, mushroomed tool heads, sprung tool joints or worn teeth. If
a hand tool fails the initial inspection, tag the tool clearly as defective and remove it
from service.
2. Allow adequate time at the end of each day to clean the farm tools and properly pack
for transportation or storage.
3. To protect farm tools from rust, use a wire brush occasionally on the metal parts and
wipe them down with an oily rag; apply rust resistant paint on metal areas that rarely
come into contact with the soil.

4. Sharpen tools such as shovels, hoes, and shears or cutters with a file or sharpening
stone and use grease or apply lubricant to moving joints; always file away from the
tools head on the push stroke only. Sharp tools always work more efficiently.
B. Storage of Farm Tools
1. Store tools in a dry, sheltered environment.
2. Place tools in a rack for safety and easy access
3. Place similar tools close together so workers can easily see the available tools.
C. Care and Maintenance of Farm Equipment
1. One of the most important aspects of maintenance is cleaning. Regular cleaning
prevents damage.
2. Inspect the implements for wear and damage.
3. Take the time for maintenance and repairs if necessary.
4. Replace the parts as they wear out, and making sure all fluids are topped up.
5. Keep everything in good condition helps minimize the collateral damage from an
otherwise minor breakdown.
SELF-CHECK 3.1
Answer with True or False
____1. Farm tools should be stored anywhere in the farm.
____2. Regular cleaning prevents damage of farm tools and implements.
____3. Farm tools can be placed in a rack or in a tool box.
____4. Always inspect farm tools for defects and damage.
____5. You can keep different tools close together.
TASK SHEET 3.1
Trainees will be asked to perform the following:
1. Sharpening of tools
2. Cleaning of tools
3. Lubricating farm tools

Information Sheet 3.2

Safety Precautions, Pre-Operation Check Up and Safety Principles in Using Farm Tractor
A. Safety Precautions When Using the Farm Tractor
Before you decide to let anyone operate the farm tractor, you need to ensure that the individual
knows how to operate the machine. Never let anyone operate the tractor without proper training
otherwise it might lead to accident. It is vital to follow the safety rule to ensure that the operator
is physically fit, trained and qualified to operate the farm tractor. In this way, the trained
individual can assist other individuals in operating the machine. Proper demonstration of the
procedure is necessary as well as explains how each of the machine operates. On the other
hand, after the demonstration, the trainer should allow the new operator to operate the
machine. Yet close supervision is required and give instructions when needed.
B. Pre-Operation Check-Up for Farm Tractor
Maintenance Inspection

Before operating the farm tractor see to it to check first if it works well. Keep in mind that there
are many factors that alter the safety and reliability of the machine. That is why it is essential to
perform pre-operational check-up to ensure safe operation. Keeping the tractor in good working
condition can help prevent possible accidents. Ensure always to keep at hand the operating
manual. See to it that each operator should read and understand the information written in the
manual. By following the operating precautions as well as following the recommendations,
accidents will be avoided. Likewise, the operator should wear the appropriate clothing and
gears when operating the farm tractor.
Safe Refueling
Another accident that is associated to farm tractor is fire and explosions. Keep in mind that
when refueling there is a great risk as you will handle gasoline. As a safety measure, you should
never refuel the machine while the engine is running. Otherwise, static electricity would
generate a spark and worst lead to fire. To reduce the static electricity, you should drop a
mounted wire in the equipment to the ground.
C. Basic Tractor Safety Principles
o

o
o
o
o
o

Always wear your seatbelt. Most tractors are equipped with a roll over protection device
that is built to protect you if the tractor rolls. A seat belt will save you from getting
crushed.
Never stand near a spinning PTO. The PTO and connected drive shaft spins with
incredible force. Keep clothing and body parts away from the spinning shaft, or risk
dismemberment and death.
Do not rest arms or hands in the joints of any hydraulic part, or risk dismemberment.
Never put your hands inside or around active implements when the tractor is running
Turn off tractor if any jamming or other obstructions occur when using PTO driven
implements
Do not operate tractor on a dangerous slope. Be aware of roll over dangers
Always move very slowly when moving heavy loads in the bucket. Driving with a heavy
load greatly changes the balance and stability of the tractor. Heavy loads encourage
tipping and rolling.

Program/Course

: HORTICULTURE NCII

Unit of Competency

: CONDUCT PRE-HORTICULTURAL OPERATIONS

Learning Outcome 3

: Secure tools, farm implements/equipment and facilities

Performance Criteria

1. Simple repair and modifications of tools, farm implements, equipment and facilities is
conducted following standard procedures
2. Preventive structures are installed during inclement weather
3. Basic post-operative checks of tools, farm implements and equipment is conducted in
accordance with manufacturers manual
4. Tools, farm implements and equipment are stored according to approved practices.

References :
1.National Agricultural Statistics Service, 2004. The 2001 Report on Adult Agricultural Related
Injuries
2.National Safety Council, 2005. The Plain Facts About the Agricultural Industry
3.Better Health Channel

INFORMATION SHEET 3.3 Farm Safety, Risks and Hazards

Introduction
Farming is considered one of the most dangerous occupation in the Philippines. You can reduce
the risk of farm injuries and illness at your farm by evaluating the risks and minimizing them.
Accidents can be prevented through better farmer education, making sure equipment is well
maintained and has adequate safety features, having safety procedures in place, and training
every worker and family member about potential dangers. Machinery such as tractors and
power tools pose the greatest injury risk in the farm. It caused deaths and disabling injuries in
agricultural operations. It is important to be safety conscious when dealing with any job that
requires the use of machinery. Statistics show that the majority of machinery-related accidents
occur as a result of human negligence. Errors include taking short cuts to save time, failure to
read the operators manual, ignoring a warning, improper lack of instruction and failure to follow
safety rules.
Safety Practices in a Carpentry Shop

1. Tools not being used should be always kept at their proper places.
2. Make sure that your hands are not in front of sharp edged tools while you are using
them.
3. Use only sharp tools. A dull tool requires excessive pressure, causing the tool to slip.
4. Wooden pieces with nails should never be allowed to remain on the floor.
5. Be careful when you are using your thumb as a guide in cross-cutting and ripping.
6. Test the sharpness of the cutting edge of chisel on wood and paper but not on your
hand.
7. Never chisel toward any part of the body.
8. Do not use chisels where nails are present.
9. Does not use chisel as a screw driver.
10. Do not use a saw with a loose handle.
11. Do not use a saw on metallic substances
12. Do not use mallet to strike nails.
13. Do not use plane at the places where a nail is driven in the wood.
Precautions to be Observed when Storing Machinery on the Farm
1. Buildings where machinery and tools are stored should be located far enough away from
structures that house livestock and hay in case of fire
2. Fire extinguisher should be located near all fuel pumps and tanks
3. Fuel storage tanks should be preferably located below ground. Tanks should be
properly vented. The area around the tank should be free of litter, weeds and any fuel
spills that could aid in starting or accelerating the spread of a fire.
4. Electrical lines coming into the building should be high enough to allow equipment to
pass underneath
5. Electrical systems in machine sheds should be sufficient for the power tools and
equipment that will require the use of electric current.
6. Electric outlets should be on the three-prong grounded type.
7. Machinery storage buildings should not be used to store debris
8. Doors on machine sheds should be wide enough for machinery to safely pass through
without being caught. Doors also need to pull or slide open and close freely in case of
an emergency.
9. Exits should be clearly marked.
10. Doors should be lockable to keep out of children and unwanted visitors.
11. Floor surfaces should be level and smooth, free of bumps and protruding rocks
12. Equipment should be parked so there is enough space for a person to walk completely
around it.
13. Buildings should have adequate ventilation for starting or running of an engine within the
structure. Engines should not be left running inside a building for a prolonged period of
time unless the exhaust is properly vented.
14. All tools and accessory equipment should be kept picked up and stored in their proper
place.
15. Keys should always be removed from all equipment and machinery to prevent children
or unauthorized people from starting them.
16. Do not allow non employees inside the machine shed. Children should never be
allowed to plat around or inside the machine shed or on farm machinery itself.
SAFETY TIPS IN OPERATING A MACHINERY
1. Remove watches and jewelry. Roll up sleeves or wear a short-sleeved shirt. Wear a
shop coat.
2. Always wear safety goggles when operating machines or using compressed air.
3. Use machine guards and safety devices.
4. Keep machines clear of loose tools.
5. Never remove metal chips with your fingers.
6. Do not talk while operating a machine.
7. Stop the machine if it makes strong noise.
8. Clean the machines and the shop after each use.
GENERAL SHOP RULES
1.
2.
3.
4.

All tools must be put away before closing the laboratory at the end of a working session
Put away all tools upon completion of a task
Dont use the floor as a temporary or long-term work surface
Clean-up metal shavings and small scrap using the shop vacuum and broom

5. Always wear appropriate safety gear.

SELF-CHECK 3.3
Instructions: Answer the following questions
1.
2.
3.
4.

Name at least 3 devices for your safety in using farm tools and machinery.
Why is there a need to train the workers before operating a machine?
What are some of the safety tips in operating a machinery?
What are some of the safety practices in handling farm tools?

TASK SHEET 3.3

If the statement best described YES, put a check; and put a check if the statement best
described NO.
Statement
1. When operating a machine, the operator should not talk.
2. You should always wear an appropriate safety gear when
using a machine.
3. It the machine makes strong noise, never stop the
machine.
4. All tools should be kept at a proper place.
5. Use only sharp tools.

YES

NO

INFORMATION SHEET 3.4 EFFICIENT KNAPSACK SPRAYER USE

Introduction
Best maintenance, calibration and use of knapsack sprayer are critical to the success of any
application and will ensure that you get maximum value, effect and safety from the products
used.
Parts of a Knapsack Sprayer
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

Nozzle
Tank lid
Pump
Hose Connections
Trigger assembly

Four Steps to Good Knapsack Spraying

Step 1. Check sprayer with clean water
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

Check for damage and leaks

Check spray pattern
Check straps
Clean nozzles and filters
Clean nozzles with brush

6. Repair leaks immediately

a. Fix all leaks before using the sprayer
b. Know where leaks are most likely to occur
c. Keep spare parts to repair leaks
Step 2. Calibrate sprayer output
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

Read product label

Follow calibration instructions
Fit appropriate nozzle
Measure swath width
Adjust water volumes within recommended limits to your specific needs such as stage of
crop growth

Step 3. Ensure an even and uniform application

1.
2.
3.
4.

Wear appropriate protective clothing

Avoid water contamination
Spray downwind and void drift
Keep constant height

Step 4.Cleaning of sprayer after use

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

Clean sprayer using best field practices

Clean sprayer inside and out
Triple rinse
Avoid contaminating waters sources
Spray washings back onto crop

Ways of improving farm spray safety:

Use the least toxic pesticide available for effective control of insect, fungus or plant, as
the case may be.

Ensure only the recommended rate of pesticide is used.

Wear protective clothing and equipment as described on the label and MSDS.

Prepare only enough chemical for immediate use.

Keep a record of each use and the results.

Ensure equipment works properly and does not leak.

Cover feed and water containers near areas where livestock are grazing;

Don't eat, drink or smoke while pouring, mixing or spraying.

Don't pour concentrated pesticide into tanks above shoulder height.

Avoid working alone if you are using a highly toxic pesticide; or have some form of
mobile communication.

Methods of Spraying

Spray with minimal drift and preferably in low wind conditions.

Never spray in high wind conditions.

Use mechanical suction to transfer pesticides to spray tank.

A vortex system can be used to mix pesticide concentrate with water before filling the
spray tank.

Prevent nozzles blocking by using correct filters and pesticide formulation. Ensure water
and equipment is clean.

Clear blocked nozzles by using a soft bristle brush or compressed air. Never suck or
blow nozzles to clear them.

Clean up

Thoroughly clean all spraying and protective equipment, where run-off will not create a
hazard or contaminate the environment.

Wash work clothing separately from domestic clothing, or use disposable clothing.

Wash yourself well after a spray operation.

After handling pesticides, wash hands with soap and water before eating, drinking, going
to the toilet or smoking.

Take precautions

Provide a first aid kit that includes a towel, clean clothing, a resuscitation mask for
expired air resuscitation, disposable eye wash bottle and eye wash solution, soap,
nailbrush, and clear instructions on what to do with this equipment.

Keep fresh water close by for washing.

Advise someone where you will be working and how long you intend to be gone.
Otherwise ensure you have a two-way radio for emergency calls.

Have a family member or other person at the farm attend first aid classes.

Check the labels, MSDSs or other safe handling guides for your pesticides, to ensure
you have the correct antidotes, emergency equipment and facilities required by labels
and MSDSs.

Stop work immediately and seek medical attention if there is any sign of muscular
spasm, blurred vision, excessive saliva or difficulty breathing. Suspect pesticide
poisoning with any of these symptoms.

If regularly using pesticides, an annual medical examination is recommended before and

after the spraying season, and more frequently with some chemicals.

For skin contact, wash with soap and water, and rinse with clean water. Remove any
contaminated clothing, and seek medical advice.

For eye contact, hold eye open under running water for 15 minutes. Seek medical
advice.

SELF-CHECK 3.4
Enumeration:
1-5 Parts of a knapsack sprayer
6-9 Four steps to good knapsack spraying
10-18 Contents of First Aid Kit
19-25 Farm Spray Safety Practices

TASK SHEET 3.4

Instructions:
1.Demonstrate the calibration of knapsack and determine the application volume
2.Demonstrate best spraying practices

Program/Course

: HORTICULTURE NCII

Unit of Competency

: CONDUCT PRE-HORTICULTURAL OPERATIONS

Learning Outcome 2

: Prepare and maintain farm facilities

Performance Criteria

1.Workplace hazards and environmental implications associated with maintenance procedures

are controlled in line with farm requirements
2.Maintenance activities are performed to maximize efficiency and effectiveness of facilities
3. Relevant information with regard to the maintenance activities are identified are noted
following standard procedures

References:
1.Wikipedia, the Free Encyclopedia
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), United States Department of Labor. Occupational Injuries
and Illnesses and Fatal Injuries Profiles database queried by industry for Agriculture, Forestry,
Fishing and Hunting (GP2AFH), Accessed June 2013.
2.

3.

Kirkhorn, S.R., Earle-Richardson, G., Banks, R.J., "Ergonomic Risks and Musculoskeletal
Disorders in Production Agriculture: Recommendations for Effective Research to
Practice." Journal of Agromedicine, 15:281-299, 2010.Davis KG, Kotowski SE, "Understanding
the ergonomic risk for musculoskeletal disorders in the United States agricultural
sector." American Journal of Industrial Medicine, 50(7):501-511, 2007. Douphrate, D.I.,
Nonnenmann, M.W., Rosecrance, J.C., "Ergonomics in Industrialized Dairy
Operations." Journal of Agromedicine, 14:406-412, 2009.
4.

Nonnenmann, M.W., Anton, D.C., Gerr, F., Yack, H.J., "Dairy Farm Worker Exposure to
Awkward Knee Posture During Milking and Feeding Tasks." Journal of Occupational and
Environmental Hygiene, 7:483-489, 2010.
5.

Cook, K.E., Field, W.E., "Proceedings of the 'Arthritis, Agriculture, and Rural Life: State of the
Art Research Practices, and Applications' Conference", West Lafayette, Indiana, May 11-13,
2011. Journal of Agromedicine, 16:311-318, 2011.
6.

Issa, S., Roberts, M., Field, B., 2012 Summary of Grain Entrapments in the United States.
Purdue University.

INFORMATION SHEET 2.1 FARM FACILITIES

Farm facilities include tool room, greenhouse, lecture room, pump station, storage room and
nursery shed. These facilities are described as follows:
TOOL ROOM
A tool room is a room where tools are stored or, in a factory, a space where tools are made and
repaired for use throughout the rest of the factory. In engineering and manufacturing, tool
room activity is everything related to tool-and-die facilities in contrast to production line activity.
GREENHOUSE
A greenhouse is a building or complex in which plants are grown. These structures range in size
from small sheds to industrial-sized buildings. A miniature greenhouse is known as a cold frame.
Commercial glass greenhouses are often high tech production facilities for vegetables or
flowers. The glass greenhouses are filled with equipment like screening installations, heating,
cooling, lighting and also may be automatically controlled by a computer to maximize potential
growth.
A greenhouse is a structural building with different types of covering materials, such as
a glass or plastic roof and frequently glass or plastic walls; it heats up because incoming visible
sunshine is absorbed inside the structure. Air warmed by the heat from warmed interior surfaces
is retained in the building by the roof and wall; the air that is warmed near the ground is

prevented from rising indefinitely and flowing away. This is not the same mechanism as the
"greenhouse effect".
LECTURE ROOM
Lecture room is a room where lessons take place. It is a classroom where lectures are given.
PUMP STATION
Pump station is a house where pumps are installed and operated.
STORAGE ROOM
Storage room is a room in the farm house where farm supplies, farm products and other farm
inputs are stored or kept for security purposes.
NURSERY
A nursery is a place for raising and tending seedlings until they are ready for planting or for sale
to other farmers or planters.

SELF CHECK 2.1

Direction: Answer the following question:
1. What do you think are the uses of farm facilities?
a. Nursery
b. Greenhouse
c. Tool Room
d. Lecture Room
e. Pump station

TASK SHEET 2.1

Prepare a farm plan and lay-out and label the farm facilities.

INFORMATION 2.2 HAZARDS AND CONTROLS

What Hazards are Agricultural Workers Exposed to?
Farmworkers are exposed to numerous safety, health, environmental, biological, and respiratory
hazards. These include vehicle rollovers, heat exposure, falls, musculoskeletal injuries,
hazardous equipment, grain bins, unsanitary conditions, pesticides, and many others.
VEHICLE HAZARDS
Injuries from vehicular incidents are serious and debilitating to farm activities.
HEAT

Heat illness can be deadly. Every year, thousands of workers become sick from exposure to
heat, and some even die. These illnesses and deaths are preventable.
Workers exposed to hot and humid conditions are at a high risk of heat illness, especially if they
are doing heavy work tasks or using bulky protective clothing and equipment. New workers may
also be at greater risk than others if they have not built up a tolerance to hot conditions.
Employers must take steps to help workers become acclimated.

Prevention
Heat-related illnesses, while potentially deadly, are easily preventable. When working in hot
conditions, remember "WATER, REST, SHADE." Drink water every 15 minutes, even when not
thirsty. Wear a hat and light-colored clothing. Rest in the shade. Be sure to watch out for fellow
workers and know your location in case you need to call for assistance. Get help right away if
there are any signs of illness.
LADDERS & FALLS
Deaths and injuries from falls remain a major hazard for farmworkers.
MUSCULOSKELETAL INJURIES
Workers in agricultural operations for both crop and animal production typically use repetitive
motions in awkward positions and which can cause musculoskeletal injuries.
Ergonomic risk factors are found in jobs requiring repetitive, forceful, or prolonged exertions of
the hands; frequent or heavy lifting, pushing, pulling, or carrying of heavy objects; and
prolonged awkward postures. Vibration and cold may intensify these conditions.
New technology may reduce some types of ergonomic injuries but increase others. For
instance, while dairy farmers have traditionally been at a higher risk for developing osteoarthritis
of the knee, more recent research has shown new technology used in milking has resulted in a
shift in musculoskeletal disorders to the shoulders, hands and arms.
Ergonomic protections
Proper tools, padding to reduce vibration, and fewer activities with high repetition are some
methods for reducing musculoskeletal injuries.
HAZARDOUS EQUIPMENT AND MACHINERY
Farmworkers routinely use knives, hoes, and other cutting tools; work on ladders; or use
machinery in their shops. However, these simple tools can be hazardous and have the potential
for causing severe injuries when used or maintained improperly.

All tools should be maintained in good condition and used according to the
manufacturers' instructions.

Power tools must be properly grounded or double insulated and all guards or shields
must be in place.

Farmworkers should wear the proper personal protective equipment (PPE) and make
sure that clothing has no strings or loose ends that could be caught by machinery. Long hair
should be tied back to prevent entanglement.

In addition, shops should be well lit and have clear walkways to eliminate slips, trips and
falls.

GRAIN BINS AND SILOS

While safety issues surrounding grain bins and silos are sometimes overlooked on farms, they
pose many dangers. Farmworkers are exposed to suffocation or engulfment hazards when
working with grain bins and silos, as well as grain dust exposures and explosions. Suffocation is
a leading cause of death in grain storage bins. Suffocation can occur when a worker becomes

buried (engulfed) by grain as they walk on moving grain or attempt to clear grain built up on the
inside of a bin. Moving grain acts like "quicksand" and can bury a worker in seconds. "Bridged"
grain and vertical piles of stored grain can also collapse unexpectedly if a worker stands on or
near it.
UNSANITARY CONDITIONS
The lack of drinking water, sanitation facilities and/or handwashing facilities can lead to many
health effects. Farmworkers may suffer heat stroke and heat exhaustion from an insufficient
intake of potable water, urinary tract infections due to urine retention from inadequate availability
of toilets, agrichemical poisoning resulting from lack of handwashing facilities, and infectious
and other communicable diseases from microbial and parasitic exposures.
PESTICIDES AND OTHER CHEMICALS
Pesticide exposure
Pesticides pose risks of short- and long- term illness to farmworkers and their families. Workers
who mix, load or apply pesticides (known as pesticide handlers) can be exposed to toxic
pesticides due to spills and splashes, defective, missing or inadequate protective equipment,
direct spray, or drift. Workers who perform hand labor tasks in areas that have been treated with
pesticides face exposure from direct spray, drift or contact with pesticide residues on the crop or
soil.
Pesticides can present a hazard to applicators, to harvesters reentering a sprayed field, to
family members due to take-home contamination, and to rural residents via air, ground water
and food. Workers may be exposed to pesticides in a variety of ways, including: working in a
field where pesticides have recently been applied; breathing in pesticide "drift" from adjoining or
nearby fields; working in a pesticide-treated field without appropriate PPE; eating with pesticidecontaminated hands; eating contaminated fruits and vegetables; and eating in a pesticidecontaminated field. Workers may also be exposed to pesticides if they drink from, wash their
hands, or bathe in irrigation canals or holding ponds, where pesticides can accumulate.
Two types of workers:

Pesticide handlers -- those who mix, load, or apply agricultural pesticides; clean or repair
pesticide application equipment; or assist with the application of pesticides in any way.

Agricultural workers -- those who perform tasks related to the cultivation and harvesting
of plants on farms or in greenhouses, nurseries, or forests. Workers include anyone
employed for any type of compensation (including self-employed) doing tasks -- such as
carrying nursery stock, repotting plants, or watering -- related to the production of
agricultural plants on an agricultural establishment. Workers do not include office
employees, truck drivers, mechanics, and any others not engaged in handling, cultivation, or
harvesting activities.

Hazard Communication
Chemicals must be properly labeled so farmworkers know the identity and hazards of the
chemicals they may be exposed to at work.

RESPIRATORY DISTRESS
Respiratory hazards
Respiratory hazards in barns, manure pits, machinery and silos range from acute to chronic air
contaminants. Farmworkers' most common respiratory hazards are bioaerosols, such as
organic dusts, microorganisms, and endotoxins and chemical toxicants from the breakdown of
grain and animal waste. Inorganic dust, from silicates in harvesting and tilling, is prevalent but
less significant.
Changes to farming mechanisms have both improved working conditions and increased
exposure to respiratory hazardsmainly due to the increased density in animal confinement.
Respiratory protection
Control of aerosols might include the enclosure and ventilation of tractors, applying moisture to
friable material, and respirators.
ZOONOTIC INFECTIONS & RELATED HAZARDS
Zoonoses are infectious diseases common to animals and humans. As new infections evolve,
the numbers and types of zoonoses change. The agricultural worker's risk of acquiring a
zoonotic infection varies with the type and species of animal and the geographic location.
Several Methods to Prevent Zoonotic Infection

Personal protective actions and equipment, such as, hand hygiene, the use of
appropriate gloves and outer protection, facial and respiratory protection and the tracking of
aggressive animals, so that restraints are used when necessary.

Environmental infection control, such as cleaning and disinfecting surfaces and

equipment, vaccinating healthy animals, isolating diseased animals, disposing of infected
tissues or dead animals appropriately and controlling the infestation of pests which can be a
carrier of these infections.

Worker health, such as vaccinating workers and providing proper training.

Several Methods to Prevent Needle stick and Related Injuries

Having an approved sharp container,

Never removing the needle cap with one's mouth,

Avoiding the recapping of needles,

Wearing the appropriate personal protection equipment, such as gloves.

NOISE
Thousands of workers every year suffer from preventable hearing loss due to high workplace
noise levels, and research has shown that those who live and work on farms have had
significantly higher rates of hearing loss than the general population.In fact, farming is among
the occupations recognized as having the highest risks for hearing loss.
Tractors, forage harvesters, silage blowers, chain saws, skid-steer loaders, grain dryers,
squealing pigs and guns are some of the most typical sources of noise on the farm. Studies
suggest that lengthy exposure to these high sound levels have resulted in noise-induced

hearing loss to farmworkers of all ages, including teenagers. Hearing loss is not as dramatic nor
as sudden as an injury from a tractor overturn or machine entanglement, but it is permanent.
Employers can achieve noise reduction in several ways - usually related to the maintenance of
the equipment:

Worn, loose, or unbalanced machine parts can increase decibel levels during operation.
Regular lubrication and parts replacement (bearings, mufflers, silencers, etc.,) reduce
friction and lower noise levels.

Larger engines that can be operated at lower speeds reduce noise levels, and may even
conserve fuel.

Vibration isolation pads may be installed under the legs of noisy equipment to reduce
noise generated by the equipment vibrating on a cement floor.

Newer chainsaws and leaf blowers have flexible mountings to reduce vibration-induced
noise as well.

Tractor and skid-steers can be purchased with sound reducing cabs and tightly fitted cab
doors and windows to reduce how much outside noise reaches the operator.

Acoustical materials may be installed on walls and ceilings to enclose sound.

In addition, employers may provide workers with personal protective equipment (PPE) but must
train them in using the PPE correctly.
OTHER HAZARDS
Farmworkers may face a number of other hazards due to being outside.
Other Biological Hazards
These include vector-borne diseases, venomous wildlife and insects, and poisonous plants.

Extreme Cold.

Lightning.

Ultraviolet Radiation.

Confined Space.
Besides grain storage, farmworkers face dangers in entering other confined spaces such as:

Manure pits.

Flat storage buildings.

Tanks.

Skin Disorders
Workers in the agricultural sector are at risk of potentially harmful exposures of the skin.

Electrical Hazards
Electrical hazards in agriculture range from the dangers of hitting overhead wires when using
large equipment to the possibility of hitting underground wires when digging.

SELF-CHECK 2.2
B. True of False
Direction: Write T if the statement is True, and write F if the statement is False.
____ 1. Injuries from vehicular accidents are serious and debilitating to farm activities.
____ 2. Workers exposed to hot and humid conditions are at high risk of heat illness.
____ 3. All tools should be maintained in good condition and used according to manufacturers
Instruction.
____4. Shops should be well lit.
____ 5. Suffocation is not a cause of death in grain storage bin.
____ 6. Farm workers suffer stroke when water is sufficient.
____ 7. Zoonoses are infectious diseases common to humans and animals.
____ 8. Proper training is not an option to prevent hazards.
____ 9. Tractor is one of the sources of noise in the farm.
____10. Use of gloves is one of the method to prevent infection.
C. Enumeration
1 3 Biological hazards
4 6 Examples of confined spaces
7 14 Typical sources of noise in the farm
15 18 Methods to prevent zoonotic infection
19 20 Respiratory hazards
21 22 Preventive practices against heat related illness
23 25 Major hazards faced by farm workers

TASK SHEET 2.2

1. Trainees will bring chemicals , read the label and discuss hazards.
2. First aid will be demonstrated to the class if the farm worker suffered from heat stroke
3. Trainees will demonstrate the proper use of personal protective equipment or PPE.