Brushcutter & Line Trimmer Op.

This Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) covers the safe operation of brushcutters and line trimmers, addressing critical hazards such as blade kickback, flying projectiles, and noise exposure. It is essential for all operators to prevent severe injuries and ensure compliance with the Work Health and Safety Act 2011. This document provides guidelines, risk management strategies, and best practices to promote safety in landscaping operations.

• Blade kickback when cutting with the upper-right quadrant of the blade → severe laceration
• Stone and projectile ricochet from the line or blade striking hidden objects → eye injury or struck-by
• Contact with blade or line during operation or while clearing the head → laceration or amputation
• Noise exposure exceeding 100 dB(A) at the operator's ear → hearing damage
• Hand-arm vibration from prolonged use → Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS)
• Burns from hot engine and muffler → contact burns
• Petrol fire from refuelling a hot unit → fire and burns
• Slip, trip, or fall on uneven or vegetated ground while operating

• Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (Cth) and applicable state/territory WHS legislation
• Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 (Cth) — Part 3.1 Managing risks of plant
• AS/NZS 4024.1 series — Safety of machinery
• AS/NZS 1270 — Acoustics — Hearing protectors
• AS/NZS 1337 — Personal eye protection
• AS/NZS 1801 — Occupational protective helmets
• AS/NZS 4453 — Protective clothing for users of hand-held chainsaws (related guidance for cut-resistant trousers)
• Safe Work Australia — Code of Practice: Managing Noise and Preventing Hearing Loss at Work
• Safe Work Australia — Guide to Managing Risks of Tree Trimming and Removal Work
• Brushcutter / Line Trimmer Pre-Start Checklist (associated document)