<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\nIt’s tempting to ignore advice about wearing protective clothing. After all, we’re only gardening, so what could go wrong? And for those who recall the 1970s, before health & safety<\/em> became a thing, few people ever wore anything like that and they were fine. At least, that’s what we like to think!<\/p>\n\n\n\nHowever, the truth is that accidents did<\/em> happen, and they still do. It’s wise to take necessary precautions to prevent injury. Why take the risk when there’s plenty of opportunity to avoid getting hurt?<\/p>\n\n\n\nHere are some items that you should consider:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>Protective gloves<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\nWhile you may have been advised to never wear gloves when using power tools, this doesn’t apply to a hedge trimmer. An angle grinder or anything that rotates, definitely, as there’s a real chance that a glove could become caught in the mechanism, but with tools that have two operating handles (like hedge trimmers and chainsaws), they are highly recommended.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Always go for heavy-duty ones, but make sure they are a good fit. Over-sized gloves will be a hindrance and will stop you from holding the hedge trimmer securely.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It’s important to wear them while operating the machine as well as when you are inspecting the blades to avoid cutting yourself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
They will also protect against cuts and scratches from twigs while you are working.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You can pick up a decent pair for between \u00a310 and \u00a320, so there’s no excuse!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>Safety Goggles<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\nMany people don’t see the need for safety goggles when using a hedge trimmer. However, the reciprocating blades are powerful and may send a flying twig straight into your face at high speed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Is it really worth risking your eyesight for the sake of putting on a pair of goggles?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Again, a good pair costs around \u00a310, and this is a sound investment in your future health.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It’s also best to wear sturdy footwear rather than sandals or flip-flops and avoid wearing loose, baggy clothes that could snag on branches or get caught in the blades.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Protection is there for your benefit, so be sure to take advantage of any that’s available!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>Preparation<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\nBefore beginning any job, check the working area thoroughly for any hazards or obstacles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Here’s an idea of what to look out for:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>Clear the area of any obstacles.<\/strong><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\nIncluding hoses, toys, rubbish, and plant pots. Most of the recorded garden accidents each year are from trips and falls involving pots that people didn’t see!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>Children.<\/strong><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\nKeep any kids well out of the way. While they might want to help, it’s best if they are restricted from coming within about 40 feet of you (ideally, you should make sure everyone stays out of the way, not just kids!). Children should never be allowed to operate it under any circumstances<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/span>Check bushes for hidden hazards.<\/strong><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\nOld fence posts tucked away inside hedges can damage the tool and may cause you to drop it or send you off balance. Also, you need to check for nesting birds. Not only is it an offence*<\/strong> to disturb or damage them, but it also could be a hazard if an alarmed parent bird suddenly launches itself from the hedge. You should also pull out any loose debris and branches or twigs that might snag on the blades.<\/p>\n\n\n\n*Under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/span>Keep pets out of the way.<\/strong><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\nThe last thing you need is a curious dog tripping or knocking you down, or distracting you as you sweep a razor-sharp blade around.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>Never Operate A Hedge Trimmer <\/strong>Under The Influence!<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\nIt shouldn’t need saying, but it’s not the best idea to drink alcohol and then decide to trim the shrubs and bushes. You need to be relatively fit and healthy, with a clear head and sharp mind so that you are alert to any potential hazards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>Electric Hedge Trimmers<\/strong><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\nThere’s an increased risk of electric shock when using these. However, all good brands will be double insulated. You should also ensure that your home has an inbuilt circuit breaker and RCD (residual current device) to lower the chance of electric shock.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Keep the cable well behind you over your shoulder while working, as this will stop you from cutting through it accidentally.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Your hedge trimmer may also require an extension lead. Ensure that it is fully unwound before starting the machine, and make sure that it is away from any water source, such as ponds or pools.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\n