Landscaping & Tree Work
Wood Chipper Operation Risk Assessment Template
The complete guide to managing safety risks when operating wood chippers.
Free to use Instant PDF download Updated February 2026
Safe practices for wood chipper operation
Wood chippers are among the most dangerous machines in arboriculture, with powerful feed mechanisms and cutting blades that can cause fatal injuries. Strict safety procedures, proper training, and functioning safety devices are non-negotiable.
This guide covers entanglement prevention, feed mechanism safety, emergency stops, and safe feeding techniques.
Outdoor Work
Outdoor Work
Activity Benefits
Why chipper safety matters
Entanglement Prevention
Proper PPE and technique prevent draw-in incidents.
Emergency Stops
Tested safety bars and controls enable rapid shutdown.
Hearing Protection
Prevents noise-induced hearing damage.
Debris Protection
Guards and PPE protect from ejected material.
Risk Identification
Key hazards & control measures
Draw-In and EntanglementHigh Risk
Potential Harm
Fatal crushing, amputation, or death from being drawn into the feed mechanism.
Control Measures
- No loose clothing or jewellery
- Feed from side only
- Release before entry
- Emergency bar tested
Cutting MechanismHigh Risk
Potential Harm
Severe lacerations and amputations from contact with rotating blades.
Control Measures
- Guards secured in place
- Machine stopped for clearing
- Lockout/tagout for maintenance
- Trained operators only
Ejected MaterialMedium Risk
Potential Harm
Eye and body injuries from wood chips, stones, and debris ejected from discharge chute.
Control Measures
- Safety glasses worn
- Discharge area clear
- Chute directed safely
- Exclusion zone observed
Noise ExposureMedium Risk
Potential Harm
Hearing damage and communication difficulties from high noise levels.
Control Measures
- Ear defenders mandatory
- Hand signals used
- Exposure time limited
- Equipment maintained
This guide covers the most common hazards. Our risk assessment wizard includes 24 hazards and 82+ control measures for Wood Chipper Operation, sourced from industry guidance — create your assessment in minutes.
Safety Checklist
Wood chipper checklist
Pre-Start
- Emergency bar tested
- Guards in place
- Blades condition good
- Feed rollers clear
PPE
- Safety glasses
- Ear defenders
- Close-fitting clothing
- Safety boots
Operation
- Feed from side
- Release before entry
- One operator only
- No leaning over infeed
Site
- Level ground
- Chute positioned safely
- Exclusion zone set
- Communication agreed
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