Wood Chipper Operation Risk Assessment

Typical hazards & measures

• Knife maintenance — Isolate machine, use cut-resistant gloves, magnetic lifters and a clear bench. Follow torque settings, use locking hardware, and verify balance and knife projection per manual. Store sharp edges sheathed and dispose of damaged knives via approved contractor.
• Towing and transport — Pre-trip checks: breakaway cable, hitch lock, lights, tyres, wheel nuts, VIN and weight compliance. Secure guards and close hopper. Use rated straps at manufacturer points. Drive within speed limits and allow increased stopping distances.
• Adverse weather — Stop for lightning or severe winds. Improve task lighting in low light; fit rain covers for controls and use gritted walkways in ice. Reschedule when high winds risk branch fall from overhead trees; reassess after weather shifts.
• Dust and spores — Orient discharge downwind, mist arisings in dry weather, and avoid dry sweeping. Wear FFP3 or powered respirator when loading dusty loads (e.g., dead wood). Provide eyewash and hygiene facilities; launder workwear and wash hands before breaks.
• Inadequate briefing — Run a toolbox talk covering feed roles, stop signals, exclusion zones, traffic plan, and emergency stops. New starters shadow a competent operator. Supervisor completes dynamic reviews at breaks and after any deviation from plan.