Chippers and shredders
Chippers and shredders were designed to turn plant materials into chips or shreds, but can easily do the same to human hands or arms. They are a source of many types of injuries, from small cuts and burns to major amputations and death.
Common hazards
Amputations or crush injuries from blades or teeth
Catching fingers, clothing, or jewellery in pinch points or wrap points
Burns from hot points
Cuts, abrasions, and bruises from projectiles striking the eyes, face, or exposed skin
Fire and spills when refuelling
A worker was killed when his clothing caught on the feeders of a chipper and he was pulled into the machine.
A young worker’s arm was pulled into the infeed rollers of a wood chipper and he suffered compound fractures of the arm.
Always check that the safety mechanism/safety guards are working properly before you start.
Before removing clogged materials or making adjustments, shut down the machine, allow enough time for it to stop, and lock it out.
Use longer pieces to push short pieces into chippers — never push short pieces by hand.
Always turn the machine completely off if you don’t use it.