LND/Specific/TBT-LND-008

Hedge Trimming and Strimming Safety

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Hedge Trimming and Strimming Safety

Toolbox Talk Record

Ref: TBT-LND-008  |  Issue: 1  |  Date: March 2026
PresenterProject
LocationDate

What?

  • Hedge trimmers and strimmers are widely used on construction sites for vegetation clearance and landscaping.
  • These tools project debris including stones, glass, and wood fragments at high speed over several metres.
  • Contact with the cutting head causes severe lacerations and amputations of fingers and hands.
  • Strimmers create high noise levels typically exceeding 95 dB, requiring hearing protection for operators.
  • Vibration from prolonged strimmer and hedge trimmer use contributes to hand-arm vibration syndrome.
  • Nesting birds are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981; cutting seasons are restricted.
  • Hidden hazards in hedgerows include fencing wire, bottles, cans, and buried cables close to the surface.
  • Fatigue from operating heavy machinery at arm height or overhead increases injury risk significantly.
  • PUWER 1998 requires that equipment is suitable, maintained, and used by trained competent operators.
  • Refuelling petrol-powered tools requires the engine to be stopped and cooled to prevent ignition.

Why?

Prevent lacerationsContact with exposed cutting blades and heads causes deep lacerations and finger amputations that are life-changing injuries.
Projectile debrisStones and debris thrown by strimmers cause serious eye injuries, facial cuts, and injuries to bystanders nearby.
Wildlife lawDestroying bird nests during the breeding season is a criminal offence under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.
Do Don't
  • Wear a visor, ear defenders, gloves, and leg protection during all operations.
  • Check the work area for hidden debris, wire, and cables before starting.
  • Maintain a safe exclusion zone around the operator to protect bystanders.
  • Check for nesting birds before cutting hedges between March and August.
  • Use anti-vibration gloves and limit daily use to stay below exposure limits.
  • Ensure the blade guard and safety features are intact before starting work.
  • Stop the engine and let equipment cool before refuelling with petrol.
  • Take regular rest breaks to manage fatigue from sustained overhead work.
  • Inspect cutting heads, blades, and line spools for damage before each use.
  • Store fuel in approved containers away from the cutting area.
  • DON'T operate trimmers or strimmers without a full face visor in place.
  • DON'T allow bystanders within the debris throw zone during cutting operations.
  • DON'T cut hedgerows during nesting season without a prior ecology check.
  • DON'T refuel while the engine is running or still hot from use.
  • DON'T remove blade guards or safety devices from trimming equipment.
  • DON'T strim near windows, vehicles, or pedestrians without debris shielding.
  • DON'T use damaged cutting line or blades; replace them before starting work.
  • DON'T operate hedge trimmers above shoulder height without a safe platform.
  • DON'T ignore vibration symptoms; report tingling or numbness in your hands.
  • DON'T leave running equipment unattended, even briefly during refuelling breaks.

See also: Landscaping Safety Awareness | Chainsaw Operations Safety
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