Picture This: Shrubbery Balancing Act

https://i.redd.it/ceimh24gxo911.jpg

Pros – He has on shoes and gloves.

Cons – He should not be standing on the railing obviously. One wrong move and he could end up falling and cracking his head on the concrete or being cut and seriously injured by the trimmer. While he’s not working very off the ground it is absolutely possible that a fall from this height could cause traumatic brain injury or death.

A hedge trimmer is designed to cut through branches the width of your finger – so amputation is also possible. Likewise, a cut from the trimmer to a major artery could cause this worker to bleed out before help can arrive – especially if he is working alone.

He should have on long pants and a long sleeve shirt to protect against cuts and scratches from flying branches and debris.

Other – It’s not obvious from this picture if he is wearing safety glasses or hearing protection, but he should be wearing both. Remember, sunglasses aren’t the same as safety glasses – sunglasses aren’t designed to withstand impact in the way that safety glasses are.

Final Word

In general, whenever you are operating trimmers, mowers, or other landscaping equipment always read the manual first. Pick up any items and remove obstructions before beginning work. Wear sunscreen, and a wide-brimmed hat along with long pants and long sleeve shirt.

If you are using an electric trimmer or mower use extreme caution – electrocution is a possibility. Start trimming/cutting close to your power source and work away from it. This will allow your cord to follow behind you instead of getting twisted up underfoot.

Finally, wait until the grass or bushes are dry before you mow or trim. Grass and branches will stick to the blades and there’s an increased chance you could slip on the wet grass.