Strimming / Brushcutting Risk Assessment Template

Typical hazards & measures

• Hidden services and obstructions — Brief with site plans and client knowledge; mark known cables, irrigation, guy wires and edging; set standoff distances from brittle pipes and electric fences; reduce speed near unknowns; stop and hand-clear if resistance is felt; never cut behind blind obstacles.
• Flying debris and projectiles — Survey and rake the strip to remove stones, glass and wire; fit the approved guard/deflector; wear visor plus safety glasses, long trousers and boots; keep a 15 m exclusion from people, pets, vehicles and glazing; angle the head to deflect away; ease off near hard edges.
• Tool change and maintenance tasks — Isolate power (spark plug cap/battery removed); work on stable bench; use blade clamp and correct spanner/torque; fit approved parts only; balance heads/blades; sheath metal blades for transport; recheck fasteners after first run; dispose of worn parts safely.
• Competence, training and supervision — Permit only trained, competent operators (e.g., Lantra/NPTC); give site-specific briefings on attachments/exclusions; supervise until signed off; refresh training periodically; prohibit unauthorised use; document briefings, pre-use checks and maintenance.
• Hand–arm vibration exposure — Choose low-vibration tools; keep line neatly wound and heads balanced; maintain blades sharp; adopt light, relaxed grip; track trigger time and rotate tasks; schedule warm-up and micro-breaks; wear warm, well-fitting gloves; remove from use any tool vibrating abnormally.