Cutting, Mowing, Shredding and Composting Machinery

A lawn mower is for cutting large, even lawns, while a brush cutter cuts tall grass, shrubs and areas a lawn mower cannot reach. An edge trimmer finishes borders along walls, paths and flower beds. When choosing, the area size matters most: for large areas a self-propelled model is best, and for small gardens a brush cutter or an edge trimmer is enough.

A petrol chainsaw is designed for long, continuous work, including in places without a power socket, such as woodland and farmland. An electric or battery chainsaw is quieter, lighter and needs no fuel mix, so it suits frequent pruning close to home. Before choosing, consider the thickness of the branches or trunks and how long the job will last.

A chainsaw requires a helmet with visor and ear protection, eye or face protection, gloves, boots and anti-cut trousers. Clothing must be designed for chainsaw cutting. The employer must provide PPE (personal protective equipment) based on the risk assessment, under D.Lgs. 81/2008 (Italian Legislative Decree 81/2008 on workplace safety). Before starting, check that the chain is tensioned, that the chain brake works and that no one is in the felling zone.

A vertical log splitter has the log resting on a platform and the blade descending from above, handy for large, heavy logs. A horizontal one has the log lying on a bench and a ram that pushes the wood against the blade, so it is easier to load. Models are compared by splitting force, given in tonnes, the maximum log length they can process, and the type of power supply.

The choice depends on the type of grass to cut: thin line suits lawns and edges, while thicker grass and shrubs need blades or a blade guard. The head must have a fitting compatible with the brush cutter shaft. Check the line diameter specified by the manufacturer and use only spare parts approved for your model.

The shredder reduces branches, grass clippings and dry leaves into shavings or wood chips, easier to compost or use as mulch. Branches of limited diameter are suitable, while thicker wood should be cut first with a chainsaw. Do not feed in stones, metal or very wet material. Always wear eye protection, gloves and the machine's guards, and never put your hands into the feed opening.

The pole pruner, such as the electric RPP750S model, must be held with both hands and kept under control, avoiding nearby power lines. The hedge trimmer must be used with the blades kept away from the body, and the motor must be switched off before clearing a jammed branch. Always wear eye protection and gloves, and check that blades, lines and guards are intact before each use.