NPTC Safe Use of Hand Held Hedge Cutters

Course overview

Hand held hedge cutters are effective, and flexible pieces of equipment.

Their mobility makes them versatile but also increases the potential for
accidents.

Our one-day certificate of competence course will teach you to use the
machine safely and correctly, as well as maintenance specific to the hedge
trimmer.

It’s ideal if you’re looking to update your skills or keep on top of the
latest work-based health and safety regulations. It’s worth noting that our
course doesn’t cover working at height.

The finer details
Our experienced instructors will teach
you to use the hedge trimmer safely and with confidence.

You’ll be guided through all the health and safety requirements and
understand the machine and its capabilities.

You’ll then tackle practical, hands-on sessions.

It’s an integrated training and assessment course, so you’ll receive a
certificate of competence.

What will be covered?

By the end of the course, you’ll be able to:

• produce a site-specific risk assessment for hedge trimmer operations


• identify the necessary Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) required


• identify the health and safety features required on a hedge trimmer


• identify defects on a hedge trimmer and decide which the operator can
  remedy and which require a service engineer’s attention


• correctly carry out all routine maintenance in accordance with the machine
  
  manufacturer’s information and/or this workbook


• prepare the hedge trimmer for use with the correct fuel/oil mix


• start the hedge trimmer from both hot and cold start in a safe manner


• state the possible hazards/risks when carrying out maintenance or
  operational tasks


• maintain the hedge trimmer in a safe and efficient working condition


• adjust the hedge trimmer for safe and comfortable operation where a
  harness is used


• operate the hedge trimmer in a safe manner, having regard for the safety
  of the public, property and environmental factors


• organise the site and use a systematic method of working where
  possible

Equipment required:

• Note pad and pen


• Steel toe capped boots with ankle protection


• Tough non-snag work clothing i.e. overalls


• Gloves with protection to the back of the hand i.e. rigger type


• Poly carbinet visor, safety glasses / goggles behind a mesh and ear
  defenders