FACTS

Primary hazards and types of injuries associated with the use of string trimmers and edgers in landscaping.

1. Lacerations and Cuts: Direct contact with the fast-moving cutting line or blade can cause deep lacerations and cuts.

• • These tools can eject debris like stones, sticks, and other objects at high speeds.

2.  Eye Injuries: The high-speed rotation of string trimmers and edgers can throw small debris into the air, leading to serious eye injuries.
3. Hearing Damage: String trimmers produce high noise levels, exceeding safe limits.
4.  Musculoskeletal Injuries: Prolonged use of these tools can lead to repetitive strain injuries in the back, shoulders, and arms due to the vibrations and the physical effort required to operate them​​.
5. Burns: Gas-powered trimmers and edgers can become extremely hot​.
6. Slip and Fall Hazards: Working on wet grass or uneven terrain can increase the risk of slips and falls.

STATS

USA

• According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), there were approximately 4,600 injuries related to string trimmers in 2020.
• An estimated 81,907 injuries involving lawn trimmers were treated in U.S. emergency departments.
• The most affected groups were men, individuals aged 40-49, and Caucasians. Eye injuries were particularly prevalent, accounting for 42.5% of all injuries, with contusions and abrasions being the most common types of head injuries. Lacerations were frequently reported in the extremities, while strains and sprains were common in the trunk.
• Nearly 50% of injuries are lacerations, and approximately 21.5% involve amputations. These severe injuries are often caused by direct contact with the fast-moving cutting line or blade of the trimmer.
• Approximately 6% of injuries involve foreign bodies in the eye, often from flying debris.
• In February 2024, Husqvarna recalled approximately 17,230 gas-powered grass trimmers sold in Canada due to a fire hazard. The recall was prompted by reports of the trimmers catching fire or producing electrical sparks, which led to one reported case of burns on a consumer’s leg and arm when they attempted to extinguish a fire. In total, the company received 12 reports of such incidents.
• A significant number of emergency room visits in Canada are related to the use of lawn care equipment, including string trimmers. These injuries often result in hospitalization due to their severity.