Electric secateurs injuries in WA orchards
Electric secateurs are widely used in Western Australian (WA) orchards for seasonal pruning, thinning, removing dead or diseased wood, training young trees and preparing canopies for harvest. However, without proper safety measures, they can cause serious injuries.
Several recent incidents causing partial finger amputations highlight the significant risks associated of using electric secateurs without proper safety measures. These incidents show why clear safety procedures, proper training, personal protective equipment (PPE) and close supervision are essential.
A person conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU) must ensure workers are trained, competent and have the right tools and safe working conditions before using electric secateurs in orchard tasks. This means giving clear instructions, confirming workers understand the training and sharing safety information in a way everyone can access.
Tips for safe use of electric secateurs
PCBUs
Provide task-specific training and formally verify competency, delivering instructions in a way that all workers can understand before they use electric secateurs.·
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and operator manual including recommended maintenance, safe‑use procedures and PPE requirements.
Provide workers with protective gloves based on a risk assessment ensuring they offer adequate hand protection for electric secateur tasks. Options may include reinforced or impact‑resistant designs and where applicable, gloves compatible with manufacturer safety‑stop systems.
Replace worn or damaged PPE immediately to maintain safety protection.
Workers
Keep your non-cutting hand away from the blade path and stand firmly before activating the tool.
Check blades, triggers, guards and safety mechanisms before starting to ensure they are operating correctly.
When using electric secateurs on a ladder, ensure the ladder is secured and stable to maintain a safe, balanced working position without overreaching.
Avoid using ladders in wet, windy or unstable weather conditions that increase the risk of slips or loss of balance.
Maintain focus on the task — avoid distractions, fatigue and rushing.