IMPACT AND CUTTING INJURIES Can anyone be crushed/cut/struck etc. due to: Injuries could be sustained as a result of the trimmer blades being poorly maintained/ damaged or incorrectly installed onto drive. The exposed moving parts present a risk to an operator’s hands and body parts. Risk of eye injury from flying objects arising from the cutting action of the hedge trimmer (e.g. twigs, leaves etc.). Ensure the operator’s hands and body parts are kept clear of moving parts during operation and maintenance. Ensure that the operator has been trained in safe work practices and appropriate PPE (e.g. eye protection, appropriate footwear etc.) is worn whilst operating equipment. Ensure the equipment is appropriately installed and serviced as per the manufacturer’s instructions. Material falling off the plant? Y N Uncontrolled/unexpected movement of plant/load? Y N Lack of capacity to slow, stop or immobilise plant? Y N The plant tipping or rolling over? Y N Parts of the plant disintegrating or collapsing? Y N Contact with moving parts during testing, inspection, operation, maintenance, cleaning or repair? Y N Major Possible High Being thrown off or under the plant? Y N Contact with sharp or flying objects? (e.g. work pieces being ejected) Y N Moderate Possible Medium The mobility of the plant? Y N Inappropriate parts and accessories being used? Y N Other Y N
Hazards Inspected Risk Assessment Description of Risk Control Measures Cons Like Risk Level SHEARING Can anyone’s body parts be sheared between two parts of plant, or between a part of the plant and a work piece or structure? Y N Major Possible High The operation of the hedge trimmer presents significant risks to the operator’s hands and fingers. Ensure that the operator has been trained in safe work practices and has appropriate PPE. Ensure that the operator does not place hands and fingers in close proximity to the moving blades. PRESSURISED CONTENT Can anyone come into contact with fluids or gases under high pressure, due to plant failure or misuse of the plant? Y N ELECTRICITY Can anyone be injured or burnt due to: Damaged or frayed electrical cords pose an electrical hazard. Using the equipment in wet weather exposes operator to electrical hazards. Ensure a risk assessment is completed prior to undertaking task in relation to electrical hazards (e.g. proximity to water, roadways etc.) Operator to check for damaged electrical cords prior to use. Do not operate equipment when raining or in wet areas. Ensure equipment is serviced on a regular basis, tested and tagged and appropriate isolation procedures (e.g. lock out tags) are in place. Live electrical conductors? (e.g. exposed wires) Y N Major Unlikely Medium Working in close proximity to electrical conductors? Y N Major Unlikely Medium Access to electricity? Y N Major Unlikely Medium Damaged or poorly maintained electrical leads, cables or switches? Y N Major Unlikely Medium Water near electrical equipment? Y N Major Unlikely Medium Lack of isolation procedures? Y N Other Y N
Hazards Inspected Risk Assessment Description of Risk Control Measures Cons Like Risk Level FIRE AND EXPLOSION Can anyone be injured by fire? Y N Can anyone be injured by explosion of gases, vapours, liquids, dusts, or other substances? Y N TEMPERATURE/MOISTURE Can anyone come into contact with objects at high or low temperatures? Y N Can anyone suffer ill-health due to exposure to high or low temperatures? Y N Can anyone be injured or suffer ill-health due to exposure to moisture? Y N OTHER Can anyone be injured or suffer ill-health from exposure to: The operation of the hedge trimmer may produce wood dust. Ensure the hedge trimmer is only operated where there is adequate ventilation. (e.g. outdoors). Chemicals? Y N Toxic gases or vapours? Y N Fumes/Dusts? Y N Minor Unlikely Low Other? (please specify) Y N 4. Risk Assessment Signoff Authorised By: Signature: Date: