Safety Alert
Use of chain flail/non standard cutting attachments on brush cutters
Use of chain flail/non standard cutting attachments on brush cutters
- HSE
- Safety Alert
- OPSTD1-2013
- Line of FireMachinery and Equipment
- Line of fireMechanical failureRegulation and legislation
- Hand toolsRotating machinery
- Machine guarding
- Construction
Summary
HSE warns that linked-metal cutting attachments on portable brush cutters can break up and eject dangerous components. Following a UK fatality, the alert explains high-speed stresses, inadequate guarding and European marketing restrictions. Users should immediately withdraw affected equipment and replace attachments with manufacturer-approved accessories; suppliers should cease supply.
Classifications: Line of fire; struck-by hazards.
Classifications: Mechanical failure; equipment failure.
Classifications: Regulation and legislation; safety legislation; regulatory requirements.
Classifications: Hand tools; hand-held tools; handheld tools.
Classifications: Rotating machinery; rotating equipment.
Classifications: Machine guarding; machinery guards; machine guards.
Classifications: Construction; construction industry.
Summary
The alert warns against using chain flail or other non-standard cutting attachments on brush cutters.
OPSTD1-2013. Themes: line of fire, machinery and equipment.