Click here to return to the RoSPA NI Garden Electrical Safety Contents page.RoSPA NI : Electricity and You

Garden Electric Safety

Most electrical gardening appliances have brightly coloured connecting flexes that are easy to see.When Using Gardening Equipment : Lawnmowers, Hedgetrimmers, Chainsaws

  • It is very important that you position the flex correctly to avoid the risk of cutting through it. Most electrical gardening appliances have brightly coloured connecting flexes that are easy to see. Always read the manufacturer's instructions thoroughly before using equipment.

  • If you cut the flex, always remove the plug from the mains socket before touching the flex - even when an RCD is fitted.

Keep the flex behind you. One way is to trail it over your shoulder. Alternatively you can hold a short loop of flex in one hand, resting it on the handle while cutting the grass.Lawnmowers

  • Keep the flex behind you. One way is to trail it over your shoulder. Alternatively you can hold a short loop of flex in one hand, resting it on the handle while cutting the grass.

  • Cut away from and not towards the flex. Be especially careful with hover type mowers which can easily drift back over your foot or the flex.

Always keep both hands on the handles of the hedgetrimmer. Pass the flex over your shoulder and ensure you work in such a way that the flex is behind you at all times.Hedgetrimmers

  • Keep clear of the flex.

  • Always keep both hands on the handles of the hedgetrimmer. Pass the flex over your shoulder and ensure you work in such a way that the flex is behind you at all times.

  • Always have enough flex to allow full mobility.

  • Wear safety goggles.

Click here to go to the top of the page.Chainsaws

  • Wear protective clothing including strong gloves and safety goggles.Wear protective clothing including strong gloves and safety goggles.
  • Read and follow the safety instructions on or with the saw, including those for starting and stopping the saw.
  • Keep a firm hold on the saw, using both hands.
  • Keep your wrists straight with your left thumb positioned beneath the front handle.
  • Make sure the timber being cut is securely positioned.
  • Do not use the saw above waist height.
  • Cut only with the chain running at full speed.
  • Keep a firm foothold while operating the saw.
  • Keep clear of the flex. Pass the flex over your shoulder and ensure you work in such a way that the flex is behind you at all times. Always have enough flex to allow full mobility.
  • Keep the saw close to your body, with the line of the saw to the right.
  • Follow the manufacturer's maintenance instructions.

Produced in association with Northern Ireland Electricity
Produced in association with Northern Ireland Electricity - www.nie.co.uk


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