LEARNING ACTIVITY SHEETS

AGRICROP 9/10

Objectives:
1. Identify the types of tools and equipment used in the specific industry or field, including their functions, components, and
manufacturers’ recommendations for maintenance.
2. Enumerate the importance of following manufacturers’ specifications for cleaning, maintenance, and storage to ensure the
longevity, performance, and safety of tools and equipment.

MINI LESSON:
Tools and equipment commonly used in plant nurseries and agriculture, along with their functions, components, and maintenance recommendations:
1. Pruning Shears:
 Function: Pruning shears, also known as secateurs or hand pruners, are essential for trimming and shaping plants in nurseries and agricultural settings.

 Components: Pruning shears typically consist of two blades, one sharp and one blunt, connected by a pivot point. They may also have a spring mechanism and
ergonomic handles.
 Maintenance: Clean the blades after each use to prevent the spread of diseases between plants. Sharpen the blades regularly and lubricate the pivot point to ensure
smooth operation.
2. Hoes:
 Function: Hoes are used for cultivating soil, removing weeds, and shaping planting beds in nurseries and agricultural fields.

 Components: A hoe consists of a long handle attached to a flat or angled blade made of metal.

 Maintenance: Keep the blade sharp for effective cutting and weeding. Clean the blade after each use to prevent rust and corrosion. Store hoes in a dry location to
prevent damage to the handle.
3. Watering Cans and Hoses:
 Function: Watering cans and hoses are used to provide plants with the necessary moisture for growth and development.

 Components: Watering cans typically consist of a container with a spout and a handle, while hoses consist of a flexible tube with a nozzle at one end.

 Maintenance: Regularly clean watering cans and hoses to prevent the buildup of algae and debris. Inspect hoses for leaks and repair or replace damaged sections as
needed. Store watering equipment in a cool, dry place when not in use.
4. Shovels and Spades:
 Function: Shovels and spades are used for digging, lifting, and moving soil, compost, and other materials in nurseries and agricultural operations.

 Components: Shovels and spades have a long handle attached to a flat blade with a pointed or squared-off tip.

 Maintenance: Keep the blade sharp and clean to ensure efficient digging. Check the handle for cracks or splinters and replace if necessary. Store shovels and spades
in a dry environment to prevent rust.
5. Seeders and Planters:
 Function: Seeders and planters are used for sowing seeds and transplanting seedlings in nurseries and agricultural fields.

 Components: Seeders and planters consist of a hopper for holding seeds or seedlings, a mechanism for dispensing them, and wheels for propulsion.

 Maintenance: Clean seeders and planters thoroughly after each use to prevent seed or soil buildup. Lubricate moving parts according to the manufacturer's
recommendations and store equipment in a covered area to protect it from the elements.
6. Greenhouse Ventilation Systems:
 Function: Greenhouse ventilation systems regulate temperature, humidity, and airflow to create an optimal environment for plant growth.

 Components: Greenhouse ventilation systems may include exhaust fans, louvers, vents, and automated controls.

 Maintenance: Clean and lubricate ventilation system components regularly to ensure proper operation. Inspect motors, belts, and bearings for signs of wear and
replace them as needed. Monitor and calibrate automated controls as necessary.
7. Tractors and Implements:
 Function: Tractors and implements are used for various tasks such as plowing, tilling, planting, and harvesting in agricultural settings.

 Components: Tractors typically consist of an engine, transmission, chassis, and hitch for attaching implements such as plows, cultivators, and seeders.

 Maintenance: Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule for tractors and implements, including oil changes, filter replacements, and greasing of
moving parts. Inspect tires, belts, and hydraulic systems regularly for wear and damage.

ACTIVITY 1: Read the scenario and the mini lesson to complete the table to summarize the functions, components and
manufacturers’ recommendation for maintenance.
Scenario: You are the manager of a large plant nursery specializing in ornamental plants and vegetables. Your nursery relies heavily
on various tools and equipment to ensure the health and productivity of your plants. As part of your ongoing training program for your
staff, you decide to conduct a workshop focusing on the types of tools and equipment used in plant nurseries and agriculture, their
functions, components, and manufacturers’ recommendations for maintenance.

Tools/Equipment Functions (3-5 words) Components Maintenance

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

MINI LESSON:
Manufacturers’ specifications for cleaning, maintenance, and storage is crucial for ensuring the longevity, performance, and safety of
tools and equipment in several ways:
1. Optimal Performance:
Manufacturers design tools and equipment with specific materials and components optimized for performance. Following their specifications
ensures that these components function as intended, resulting in optimal performance during use.
2. Safety Assurance:
Manufacturers' specifications often include safety guidelines to minimize the risk of accidents or injuries. Adhering to these guidelines ensures that
tools and equipment operate safely, reducing the likelihood of workplace incidents.
3. Prevention of Damage:
Manufacturers provide recommendations for cleaning, maintenance, and storage to prevent damage caused by corrosion, wear, or misuse. Following
these specifications helps preserve the integrity of the tools and equipment, prolonging their lifespan.
4. Efficiency and Productivity:
Properly maintained tools and equipment operate more efficiently, allowing workers to complete tasks more quickly and effectively. This enhances
overall productivity in the workplace and reduces downtime due to equipment failures or malfunctions.
5. Cost Savings:
Regular maintenance and proper storage according to manufacturers' specifications can help prevent the need for costly repairs or premature
replacement of tools and equipment. This results in long-term cost savings for the organization.
6. Compliance with Warranty Requirements:
Manufacturers often specify maintenance procedures and storage conditions to maintain warranty coverage. Failure to follow these specifications
may void the warranty, leaving the organization responsible for repair or replacement costs.
7. Preservation of Quality:
Tools and equipment that are cleaned, maintained, and stored according to manufacturers' specifications retain their quality and functionality over
time. This ensures consistent performance and high-quality results in the work environment.
8. Regulatory Compliance:
Some industries have regulatory requirements regarding the maintenance and safety of tools and equipment. Adhering to manufacturers'
specifications helps ensure compliance with these regulations, avoiding potential fines or penalties.

ACTIVITY 2: Answer the following questions.

1. Why is it important to follow manufacturers' specifications for cleaning tools and equipment?
2. How does proper maintenance, according to manufacturers' recommendations, contribute to the longevity of tools and equipment?
3. Provide an example of how failure to follow maintenance guidelines might impact the performance of a specific tool or piece of
equipment.
4. How does adherence to these safety guidelines enhance workplace safety?
5. What are some common types of damage that can occur to tools and equipment if maintenance procedures are not followed?
6. How does proper storage, as recommended by manufacturers, help prevent damage to tools and equipment?
7. Explain how failure to properly clean and store tools and equipment might affect their functionality over time.
8. How does regular maintenance of tools and equipment contribute to workplace efficiency?
9. What are the potential financial implications of neglecting maintenance procedures outlined by manufacturers?
10. Why is it important for businesses to adhere to manufacturers' specifications to maintain warranty coverage for tools and
equipment?

ACTIVITY 3: Write TRUE if the statement is correct and FALSE if it is not.

____1. Pruning shears are primarily used for cutting and shaping plants in a nursery.
____2. Hoes are commonly used for watering plants in agricultural fields.
____ 3. Watering cans and hoses are essential tools for providing moisture to plants in a nursery or agricultural setting.
____ 4. Shovels and spades are interchangeable terms for the same gardening tool.
____ 5. Seeder and planter maintenance typically includes lubricating the planting mechanism.
____ 6. Greenhouse ventilation systems are necessary for regulating temperature and humidity in plant nurseries.
____ 7. Tractors and implements are used primarily for transportation within a nursery.
____ 8. Following manufacturers' specifications for maintenance is optional for tools and equipment.
____ 9. Lubricating moving parts is not necessary for maintaining tools and equipment.
____10. Storing tools and equipment in a damp environment can help prevent rust.
____ 11. Safety harnesses and lanyards are not required when working at heights in a nursery.
____ 12. Regular inspection of tools and equipment is unnecessary for maintenance.
____ 13. Power drills are primarily used for mixing soil in a nursery.
____ 14. Power trowels are used for cutting wood in agricultural fields.
____ 15. Failure to follow manufacturers' recommendations for maintenance can void warranty coverage for tools and equipment.

MARVIN R. MONTEZA