Leaf Blowing & Clearance Risk Assessment Template

Typical hazards & measures

• Fuel handling and spills — Shut off engine and allow to cool before refuelling; decant from approved containers with funnel or spout; refuel on hard ventilated ground away from drains; keep spill kit ready; wipe spills before restart; store fuel in locked ventilated stores; prohibit smoking and ignition sources during refuel.
• Manual handling and repetitive strain — Adjust backpack frames and waist straps for fit; alternate hands and vary stance; schedule micro breaks and rotate tasks; warm up shoulders and wrists pre shift; keep hose close to body and avoid twisting with a fixed foot; select lighter balanced tools for small sites; report early discomfort for action.
• Traffic and moving vehicles — Set barriers or cones and hi vis working zones near roads and car parks; appoint a lookout; never blow debris into carriageways; schedule work for off peak times; maintain clear escape route; use flashing beacons on vehicles; brief on reversing risks; position away from cyclists and pedestrians.
• Lone working and communication — Avoid lone working in high risk sites; if unavoidable, implement check in intervals and GPS/phone systems; share site plan and duration; ensure operator can hear alarms or phones while using hearing protection; pre-agree stop points; provide first aid kit; restrict to daylight hours.
• Fatigue, heat and hydration — Brief crews to pace output; enforce rest, water and shade breaks; use breathable PPE; rotate strenuous tasks; monitor for heat or cold stress; plan workloads to avoid extended continuous use; encourage early reporting of fatigue; provide warm layers and gloves in cold conditions.