Landscaping & Tree Work
Strimming / Brushcutting Risk Assessment Template
The complete guide to managing safety risks in strimming and brushcutting operations.
Free to use Instant PDF download Updated February 2026
Safe practices for strimming and brushcutting
Strimmers and brushcutters spin cutting heads at high speed, ejecting debris at velocities that can cause serious injury. Combined with noise, vibration, and the physical demands of the work, operators need comprehensive protection and training.
This guide covers debris protection, harness adjustment, vibration management, and safe working near obstacles and water.
Outdoor Work
Outdoor Work
Activity Benefits
Why strimming safety matters
Eye Protection
Prevents serious eye injuries from high-velocity debris.
Vibration Control
Protects against white finger and vibration syndrome.
Hearing Protection
Prevents noise-induced hearing damage.
Bystander Safety
Protects public and colleagues from ejected debris.
Risk Identification
Key hazards & control measures
Ejected DebrisHigh Risk
Potential Harm
Eye injuries, facial injuries, and lacerations from stones, glass, and debris ejected at high speed.
Control Measures
- Full face visor worn
- Guard positioned correctly
- 15m exclusion zone
- Area cleared before work
Rotating Cutting HeadHigh Risk
Potential Harm
Severe lacerations, entanglement, and contact injuries from exposed cutting line or blade.
Control Measures
- Leg protectors worn
- Guard fitted and secure
- Kill switch tested
- Correct head for task
Vibration ExposureMedium Risk
Potential Harm
Hand-arm vibration syndrome, numbness, tingling, and reduced grip strength.
Control Measures
- Anti-vibration gloves
- Exposure time limits
- Regular equipment service
- Job rotation
Hidden ServicesMedium Risk
Potential Harm
Electric shock, gas leaks, and explosions from striking buried cables or pipes.
Control Measures
- Service records checked
- CAT scanner used
- Marker posts noted
- Hand-dig near services
This guide covers the most common hazards. Our risk assessment wizard includes 21 hazards and 21+ control measures for Strimming / Brushcutting, sourced from industry guidance — create your assessment in minutes.
Safety Checklist
Strimming checklist
PPE
- Full face visor
- Ear defenders
- Anti-vibration gloves
- Leg protectors
Equipment
- Guard secure
- Harness adjusted
- Kill switch working
- Line correct length
Site
- Debris cleared
- Services located
- Exclusion zone set
- Signage displayed
Work Limits
- Vibration trigger time
- Break schedule
- Weather conditions
- Fatigue monitoring
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