WV Local Technical Assistance Program
Tailgate Safety Talks
Mower Safety
This Tailgate Talk is part of the NLTAPA collection.
SAFELY OPERATING MOWING EQUIPMENT
NOISE
Mower noise levels typically range from 90 to 100 decibels.
Keep mowers in good repair to minimize noise levels.
Wear hearing protection when operating equipment.
MOWER BLADES CAN THROW OBJECTS INTO THE AIR
Ensure guards, including drag shields and discharge deflectors, are in place.
Do not remove a grass catcher or unclog a discharge chute while the engine is running.
Wear safety glasses.
Clear the work area of trash, debris, rocks and other objects that could be thrown by the mower.
Keep people out of the work area.
When crossing gravel, disengage the blades.
MOWER BLADES CAN CAUSE CUTS AND AMPUTATIONS
Keep hands and feet away from mower blades.
Before cleaning or performing maintenance, shut off the mower, allow the engine to cool, and disconnect the spark plug.
Wear nonslip safety shoes.
Do not mow on slippery surfaces.
When using a push mower, mow across slopes to reduce the risk of slipping or the mower rolling onto you.
MOWER ENGINES ARE HOT
Allow the engine to cool before performing maintenance or adjustments.
Keep hands, arms and clothing away from hot engine and exhaust components.
Do not touch the muffler, exhaust pipe or engine block while the engine is running or hot.
Keep flammable materials away from hot engine surfaces.
Shut off the engine and remove the key or disconnect the spark plug before servicing.
Ensure heat shields and guards are in place and in good condition.
RIDING MOWERS ROLL
Never mow a wet slope with a riding mower.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for mowing across, up or down slopes and hills.
Do not mow slopes that exceed the manufacturer’s recommended limits.
Mow slowly on slopes.
Do not attempt to stabilize the mower by placing a foot on the ground.
Do not attempt to stabilize the mower with makeshift weights.
Watch for holes, drop-offs, obstacles and uneven terrain that could cause the mower to tip.
Use extreme caution in tall grass, which can hide obstacles, hazards and edges.
RESOURCES AND REFERENCES
Mowing and Trimming Safety
Kansas State University Research and Extension
https://www.osha.gov/dte/grant_materials/fy09/sh-19503-09/mowing-trimming_safety_manual. pdf
Dangers of Roll-Overs of Riding Mowers OSHA Web URL