Weed Whacker Safety Talk: What Your Employees Should Know

Weed whackers are a great way to keep a lawn looking neat and tidy, but they can also be dangerous if you’re not careful. In this article, we’ll go over the basics of weed whacker safety at work so that you can stay safe while using one.

First and foremost, always read the manufacturer’s instructions before using a weed whacker, also called weed trimmer and string trimmer. This will help you understand how to properly use the machine and avoid any potential hazards.

When operating a weed whacker, be sure to wear appropriate clothing and safety gear. Long pants and closed-toe safety boots will help protect your legs from accidental cuts, and gloves will protect your hands. Additionally, it’s a good idea to wear eye protection, such as safety glasses, to shield your eyes from flying debris.

• An estimated 81,907 injuries involving a lawn trimmer occurred in the U.S. from 2000-2009.
• Weed whackers account for 16,900 ER visits each year. 

Why is weed whacker safety important?

Weed whacker safety is important because the blades on weed whackers are incredibly sharp and can cause serious injury if not used properly. In addition, weed whackers emit fumes that can be harmful if inhaled, so it is important to wear the appropriate safety gear when using one.

Weed whacker safety hazards

• Weed whackers have a spinning blade or string that quickly cuts through grass and weeds. The blades can spin at speeds of up to 10,000 rpm, making them extremely sharp and dangerous.
• Weed whackers can easily cut through skin and flesh, causing lacerations, so it is important to always wear protective gear when using one.
• It is important to avoid contact with power lines when using a weed whacker. Keep a safe distance of at least ten feet away from overhead power lines. Never trim near power lines or poles.
• When trimming near plants or other objects, flying debris can easily be thrown into the air and cause injuries. Make sure you wear safety goggles.
• Weed whackers can get very hot when in use, so it is important to keep your hands and body away from the blades.
• The high-pitched noise weed whackers make can cause long-term hearing damage if exposure is prolonged.
• Never operate a weed whacker when you are tired or impaired in any way. Also, if you are feeling ill or have been drinking alcohol.

Weed whacker safety toolbox talk

Here are some things to keep in mind when using weed whackers.

Before you strim:

• Always read the manufacturer’s instructions before using a weed whacker.
• Make sure the weed whacker is turned off before you start trimming.
• Ensure the strimming guard is in place.
• Be aware of your surroundings when using a weed whacker and avoid areas with high traffic or pedestrians.
• Keep the weed whacker blades sharp to minimize kickback.
• Wear goggles, gloves, and other appropriate PPE to protect your eyes and hands.
• Pick up debris.

During strimming:

• Be careful when trimming around trees and other obstacles.
• Don’t trim too close to the ground; you could damage the weed whacker.
• Don’t let anyone stand behind you while you’re trimming.
• Be aware of the direction of the wind, and avoid spraying weed whacker fumes toward other people or animals.
• Watch out for slip, trip, and fall hazards.

After strimming: 

• Store the weed whacker safely when you’ve finished using it.
• Inspect the weed whacker regularly for damage and replace worn parts as necessary.

If you follow these weed whacker safety tips, you’ll be able to avoid accidents and injuries. Weed whackers can be dangerous, but with the proper precautions, they can be safe to use. Talk to your workers about these tips before they start trimming, and make sure they understand the importance of weed whacker safety.

Illnesses and injuries related to hand safety

• Hearing loss: weed whackers can produce a lot of noise, which can lead to hearing loss if workers are not careful.
• Eye injuries: weed whackers can shoot out debris from the plants being trimmed, which can cause eye injuries if workers are not wearing safety goggles.
• Respiratory problems: the exhaust from weed whackers can contain harmful fumes, which can cause respiratory problems if workers are not wearing a mask.

Questions to employees

• What are the dangers of weed whackers?
• How do you safely use a weed whacker?
• What are the best practices for weed whacker safety?
• Are there any specific precautions you need to take when using a weed whacker?
• What should you do if you accidentally cut yourself with a weed whacker?

Video on weed whacker safety

Weed whacker safety meme