Safe Operation, Use & Maintenance of Hedge Trimmers

Hedge Trimmers are potentially dangerous machines, which can cause major injury if used by untrained people. Anyone who uses Hedge Trimmers at work must receive adequate training and be competent in using Hedge Trimmers for that type of work.

Course designed for

It’s ideal if you work in a number of industries, from agriculture to woodland.

Course pre-requisites

Learners are required to be 16 years of age or above and be medically fit to participate

Course content

• Recognise and state the statutory requirements and relevant Approved Codes and guidance documents
• Understand the risk assessment process
• Identify procedures to deal with accidents, incidents and emergencies
• Complete basic environmental checks prior to work operations
• Know the health and safety legislation that underpins hand held hedge trimmer operations
• Know the appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for hand held hedge trimmer operations
• Know the health and safety features of the equipment being used
• Know that there are different types of hedge trimmer
• Understand hedge types and growth habits
• Know how to maintain the hedge trimmer
• Know how to prepare work area
• Know how to operate a hedge trimmer
• Know how to clean, store and transport equipment safely and appropriately

Course qualification

In-House Certificate (issued by HSCT)

Skill identity card (issued by HSCT upon request)

Refresher training

Every 3 years or if Legislation Changes

Course venue

HSCT Facilities – 50 Nuttscorner Road, Crumlin, BT29 4SQ

Other approved venues

Course duration

1 Day for Refresher, 2 Days for a Novice

Course size

Maximum of 12 learners per Instructor

Maximum of 4 learners per Assessor

Course assessment

• MultiChoice questionnaire
• Competency assessment