Rank: New forum user
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I'm in the process of assisting with the development of a risk assessment for working on slope (landscaping and ground-maintenance i.e. gardners). It will also involve the use of equipment like ride-on mowers on slope, and will range from generic to specific risk assessments depending on sites. I'm aware of AFAG705 (HSE) but I would greatly appreciate more practicable guidance and other relevant documents that might be useful.
Cheers.
O.
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Rank: Super forum user
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There is now robotic kit on the market these days so the operator does not need to 'ride' on the slope - this way of working may be an answer
Evaluate [using manufacturers and staff information] all the slopes in your area to ID 'no go' areas so theses slopes can be replanted in a different way so as those areas need less 'ride on' cutting
To date the 'crampons' that I and others have tested have not proven to be useful and mowing by 'rope control' is frowned upon but it is a way of working
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Rank: New forum user
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Having felt the wrath from HSE over this, here is some relevant info. It is important to note that there needs to be a specific risk assessment for each site, generics don't work. Its not only the slope you need to consider, think about water courses, poor sightlines etc.
We produced plans for each site, went to site, measured and marked slopes on the plans to identify areas that couldn't be cut by ride on etc and gave this info to the operators.
As Bob says, you need to consider how you deal with these slopes, either through planting or different cutting regime. Walk behinds on slopes provide ankle problems and fatigue etc.
Look at the kit you are using, there are some small ride ons now that will work up to 26 degrees
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Rank: Super forum user
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I've never been too comfortable with mowers dangled off ropes, although many GM staff tell me that they feel that this is a 'safe' method. I'm not convinced. We have a mower with extra long handles and this works to a point but doesn't overcome the potential musculo-skeletal problems with working on a slope for sustained periods. There are a number of manufacturers that make remote controlled mowers, but I personally favour alternative planting schemes and/or a relaxation of the client spec for cutting. It is problematic for sure.
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Rank: New forum user
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Thank you for the post/advice.
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