Choosing the Right Line Trimmer or Brush Cutter - Safety Features

What safety gear do I need for a line trimmer or brush cutter?

All trimmers are machines with lines or blades spinning at extremely high speed that can be unsafe if they’re not used properly, and carefully.

Obvious, perhaps but it’s worth saying and always worth remembering.

While most trimmers have the essential safety features, some won’t. Here’s what to look for.

Standard safety guards

Standard safety guards should include a shield over the line ( head) to prevent debris – weeds, twigs, mulch or stones – flying up and hitting you. Some also include plant protectors to limit damage to trees. 

Easy-to-reach stop switch

We touched on this earlier, but it’s worth re-emphasising. Make sure there’s a ‘stop’ button that’s easy to reach so you can cut the power quickly when you need to.

Personal safety gear

Make sure you invest in some quality personal safety equipment and use it every time you’re working with the trimmer.

Eye and Ear protection

Number one must-have is eye protection.  And not just sunglasses, but proper safety glasses or goggles.

Couple that with some ear protection – those decibel levels can be deceptive, and the longer you’re exposed to noise without earmuffs or plugs, the more damage you can do to your hearing.

Foot protection

You should also wear work boots/safety boots ­– with some sort of internal protection structure if you’re using a bladed trimmer.

Leg protection

It’s not a job for shorts. You should be wearing long pants at least, and perhaps consider some protective chaps if you’re going to be working with especially tough foliage or in long grass.

Your Honda Outdoors dealer will be able to sort you out with all the safety gear you need.

Harness

If you’re using a harness, make sure it’s set up correctly, comfortably, and everything is securely fastened.

Keep your eyes open

Make sure you’re comfortable with your trimmer and how it feels and works before before tackling anything too challenging.

And keep your eyes open. Stay clear of any outdoor wiring or pipes, anything that could be a hazard.

That’s all on the safety front. Wear the right gear, keep your mind on the job, and you’ll have a great time out there.