LND/General/TBT-LND-022
Hedge Trimming and Strimmer Safety
Landscaping & External Works › General › Hedge Trimming and Strimmer Safety
Toolbox Talk
Hedge Trimming and Strimmer Safety
Hedge trimmers and strimmers are commonly used on construction sites for landscaping and vegetation management. These powered tools spin cutting blades at high speed and can throw debris over considerable distances. Contact with the blade causes severe lacerations, and projectile debris can injure bystanders. This talk covers the safe use of hedge trimmers and strimmers on UK construction sites.
Key Hazards
Severe laceration from contact with the rotating trimmer blade
Eye injuries from debris thrown by the strimmer cutting head
Noise-induced hearing loss from prolonged petrol tool operation
Hand-arm vibration exposure from extended use of powered trimmers
Control Measures
- Wear a full face visor, hearing protection, and heavy-duty gloves during all cutting operations.
- Establish an exclusion zone of at least 15 metres around the cutting area to protect bystanders.
- Inspect the trimmer for blade damage, guard integrity, and handle security before each use.
- Use the correct cutting line diameter and type for the strimmer head as specified by the manufacturer.
- Keep both hands on the controls and maintain a stable footing during all cutting operations.
- Avoid cutting near buried services, irrigation pipes, and electrical cables along the ground.
- Refuel petrol-powered tools only when the engine is off and cool, away from ignition sources.
- Rotate operators to manage hand-arm vibration and noise exposure within daily action values.
- Check the area for nesting birds during the bird nesting season before cutting any vegetation.
Remember
- Wear a full face visor, hearing protection, and heavy-duty gloves during all cutting work
- Maintain a 15-metre exclusion zone around the cutting area to protect other people nearby
- Inspect the trimmer for blade damage and guard integrity before every single use
- Refuel only when the engine is off and cool, away from any ignition sources
- Check for nesting birds during nesting season before cutting any hedgerow or vegetation
Applicable Legislation: PUWER 1998 · Noise at Work Regulations 2005 · Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005 · Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981
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