Remember to Focus on Lawn Mower Safety

Spring is almost here, and that means it’s time to fire up those lawn mowers. It also means city workers need to focus on lawn mower safety.

Safety must be a top priority whether employees are using zero-turn mowers or other equipment. Each year, more than 80,000 accidents are recorded from the use of lawn care equipment in the U.S., and 70 people are killed each year from mower-related accidents. These accidents are costly in terms of lives and injuries, but cities also face the costs of property damage and higher insurance costs because of accidents.

A few safety tips to consider when mowing are:

• Be familiar with your equipment. Read, understand, and follow the manufacturer's instructions for maintenance and safe operation.

• A spring tune-up is always a good idea. Inspect and service all lawn care equipment before use.

• Be aware of the safety features of your equipment, including how to stop it in case of an emergency.

• Know the area where you are working. Inspect and clear the area of trash, debris, rocks, limbs, and other items that could be thrown from a mower.

• Note potential hazards such as holes and drop-off areas, and mark obstacles that can’t be removed, such as sprinkler heads.

• Watch for overhead obstacles. Survey your work area for low-hanging limbs, wires, and other hazards.

• Choose the appropriate equipment when mowing inclines. Zero-turn mowers should not be used on slopes greater than 15 degrees.

• Avoid using riding mowers near drop-off areas or water hazards. A walk-behind mower or line trimmer is a safer option for these areas.

• Roll-over protection systems (ROPS) should be kept in the upright position. Operators must wear a seatbelt when operating a mower with the roll bar in the upright position.

Property and liability considerations

• Schedule mowing when parks and public areas are less likely to be occupied.

• Always mow with the discharging chute directed away from people or property to avoid injury or damage from flying objects.

• Make sure mower deck chutes are in the down position. Whenever possible, utilize a mulching kit or rear discharge mower deck.

For more safety information, see the KLC Safety Moment Video on mowing safety.