Lawn Equipment Safety
Operating lawn equipment may seem like an easy task with very little risk of injury. However, you may be surprised to learn that each year, 75,000 Americans are injured while operating lawn equipment. Gas and electric powered lawn tools such as lawn mowers, edgers, and trimmers are powerful machines that can easily injure adults and children alike if safety precautions are not taken. Whenever you decide to operate lawn equipment, consider the possible dangers and take appropriate actions to help keep your family safe.
Potential Equipment Hazards
Most lawn equipment uses a rapidly moving blade or other cutting surface to trim grass, bushes, and tree limbs. This rapid motion can send debris flying when it gets in the way of the moving cutting edge. With lawn mowers, objects on the grass such as stones or toys could become lodged in the engine and shot out the side of the mower, possibly injuring someone.
In addition, a mower on a steep surface could tip over, cutting or trapping the operator. People standing too close to the cutting edge of any machinery may be injured if the operator loses control even for a moment. Also, the surface of lawn equipment can become very hot while running, possibly burning anyone who touches it during or shortly after use.
Lawn Equipment Safety Precautions
If you plan to operate lawn equipment, be sure to consider the following safety precautions which can help to keep you and others safe:
- Pick up debris before operating. Any materials scattered around the yard should be removed from the lawn before you try to mow.
- Wear safety gear. Goggles, long sleeves and pants, and boots protect you from flying debris and a blade that may get too close. Gloves prevent cuts and blisters. Earmuffs protect your ears from noise damage while operating equipment.
- Clear the area before you begin. Don’t allow children to play around the equipment while you are working.
By taking some simple preventative steps before working in the yard, you can minimize your risk of injury and save yourself a trip to the emergency room. If an unexpected injury does occur, seek emergency medical attention immediately.
Contact Us
If you or someone you love has been injured by lawn equipment, consider contacting a personal injury attorney immediately. Someone else may be liable for the negligent operation of the lawn equipment and you and your family may be entitled to compensation for injuries and damages. For sound legal advice and assistance, contact experienced Austin personal injury lawyer Vic Feazell today at 877-948-4842.
