• 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