1. Procedure for Using SCAG Mower (Revision 1 – 11th November 2010) Toolbox Talk

2. Hazards and risks Risk of cuts from moving blades Flying debris which can cause injury to the eyes or other part of the body, injure pedestrians and damage property or passing vehicles Noise Working on steep banks – slips and falls Loss of control of mower if an obstruction is encountered or mowing on slopes which are too steep Animal faeces, which can cause disease and infection – operators may come into contact with these when carrying out adjustments

3. Persons authorised to use the SCAG mower All staff operating the Scag mower must receive a toolbox talk on this procedure on a regular basis. A list all persons who are authorised to use the Scag mower is maintained by the Grounds Officer and displayed at Bedford Road and Balgownie. Pre-use inspection Before use inspect that the following: Ensure spark plug wire in place before starting the mower. Ensure there are no loose fittings or fuel leaks.

4. Personal protective equipment to be worn when using the SCAG mower Safety glasses Ear protection (If disposable earplugs are being used ensure hands are clean when inserting or removing from the ear) Steel toe capped safety boots High visibility vest Disposable gloves or handwipes (for use when carrying out adjustments) When operating the mower loose clothing should not be worn. Legs must be covered at all times when using the mower.

5. Area to be worked on Other persons must be kept at reasonable distance from the area being worked on. Where work is to be carried out in busy areas, barriers may have to be erected around the area and if possible the work carried out outwith peak times. When the mower is to be operated on a slope, the operator must ensure that there are no persons below the work area. 

6. Area to be worked on (continued) Before starting work examine the area for objects which could be thrown up or become entangled in the mower. Look for stones or other solid objects, animal faeces and poisonous plants. Ensure that a good footing can be obtained. Look out for holes, trip hazards and any slippery conditions, as these should be avoided.

7. Using the mower on slopes To check if the mower can safely be used on a slope, attempt to reverse the mower up the slope with the cutter deck down and blades switched off. If the mower can reverse up the slope without the wheels slipping cutting can proceed with caution. When mowing on slopes ensure that there are no other persons below the area being worked on. Always travel across slopes. Reduce speed when turning on slopes Do not mow on slopes if the grass is wet. Wet grass reduces traction and steering control. The mower must not be used on the following slopes: - Hillhead – Slope between Keith House and North House - Foresterhill – slopes at Medical Library and Suttie Building

8. Use of the machine The mower must not be operated in areas where space is restricted or within 1 metre of hedges, ditches, boundary walls and fences. Always start the engine/park the mower on a level surface. Reduce speed when making sharp turns and when turning on slopes. 

9. Use of the machine (continued) Keep a firm hold on both handles at all times and walk, never run. When working in an area where space is restricted the mower must be at a full stop before shifting between gears or shifting between forward and reverse. Never raise the cutter deck while the blades are rotating.

10. Use of the machine (continued) Before removing any obstruction from the cutter area or carrying out any maintenance - stop the engine and let the machine come to a complete halt, remove the ignition key and spark plug wire. When carrying out adjustments wear disposable gloves or clean hands with handwipes afterwards. Do not eat or smoke whilst carrying out adjustments. The mower must not be left running whilst unattended. The key must be removed from the ignition. Keep all shields in place. 

11. Use of the machine (continued) Ensure the interlock/levers are functioning correctly Allow the mower to cool before removing the fuel tank cap and refuelling. When fuelling the mower, the procedure for fuelling petrol driven equipment must be observed. When loading or unloading the mower onto the back of vehicles a proper ramp which is wide enough to accommodate the mower must be used. 