Tag Archive for: Address

Lantra’s campaign to address trend in chainsaw accidents

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Lantra’s campaign to address trend in chainsaw accidents: PPE or A&E: the choice that is faced by people when they purchase a chainsaw.

Lantra, the leading organisation for careers, skills, and qualifications in the land-based and environment sector is today launching a new campaign highlighting the critical importance of chainsaw safety. The campaign will educate the public and professionals, that chainsaws are not just another piece of garden equipment but are potentially lethal power tools that demand proper training and personal protective equipment (PPE).

Lantra's campaign to address trend in chainsaw accidents

Lantra’s campaign to address trend in chainsaw accidents

As chainsaws become more accessible through low-cost supermarkets, being middle aisle specials, available to purchase online and being able to be bought at DIY stores, there has been a worryingly increasing trend of accidents relating to improper use. A freedom of information request to NHS hospitals in England, Wales, and Scotland shows that 3144 have attended accident and emergency departments due to a chainsaw related injury in the last 10 years, with the trend increasing since 2020.

Respect the chainsaw, the new campaign from Lantra, sets out to dispel myths, raise awareness, and promote essential safety measures.

Speaking about the new campaign, Clegg Bamber MBE, Head of Communications at Lantra, said: “We know that chainsaws can cause life-changing injuries within a split second. Sadly, sometimes these injuries become fatal. Our message to all people who operate a chainsaw today, or in the future, is chainsaws are dangerous machines, training on how to use them is essential, and PPE is non-negotiable.”

Also commenting on the new campaign, Mandy Maynard, Head of Industry Partnerships for Forestry and Arboriculture at Lantra said: “Training and protective equipment are important when handling a chainsaw. PPE can mean the difference between a close call and a catastrophic injury. It’s not an add-on but a necessity.”

As part of the campaign, Lantra have released a new film – highlighting the importance of training, knowledge of how to use a saw safely, and the requirement of wearing protective clothing. The new film, led by James Bingham, a qualified arborist summarises the dangers of the chainsaw, and emphasises how understanding how a chainsaw works, how to use the saw properly, including the risk of kickback, and exploring how protective clothing comes into effect should it connect with a chainsaw.

Whether pruning a tree in the garden, clearing a fallen tree from the driveway or working in a professional environment, the campaign underlines that safety must come first.

To learn more about chainsaw safety, download guidance, or to find a Lantra training course near you, please visit www.lantra.co.uk/chainsaw-safety

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Expert Speakers To Address Turf Management Challenges

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Expert Speakers To Address Turf Management Challenges: The Grounds Management Association (GMA) is pleased to confirm the speaker line-up for its upcoming GMA Connect events at Ashton Gate Stadium and Durham County Cricket Club.

GMA Connect is designed to bring the grounds industry together at a regional level, offering a valuable opportunity for grounds professionals to connect and exchange ideas. These practical events will feature expert seminars, live demonstrations and insights from leading manufacturers – all in one day.

Expert Speakers To Address Turf Management Challenges

Expert Speakers To Address Turf Management Challenges

Renowned weather expert and industry leader, Mark Hunt, will present ‘Turf Management in the Current Climate’ which will explore the impact of changing weather patterns on turfgrass management, with advice on reading forecasts and managing issues like dew formation and disease risks.

Turf consultant, Alex Vickers, will deliver ‘Reading Your Soil’, a hands-on workshop exploring soil profiles, sampling methods, and spotting signs of compaction. Expect to get your hands dirty in this interactive session!

On the new GMA Connect events, Alex Vickers said: “These new GMA Connect events are a fantastic opportunity for professional grounds people to learn and share experiences. The format is really unique, offering an intimate setting where attendees can engage directly with experts and explore today’s challenges in depth. The chance to take part in hands-on workshops and network with peers makes these events invaluable.”

The GMA’s Ian Mather-Brewster will walk attendees through his sessions ‘Carrying Out a Surface Assessment’ and ‘Using a Playing Surface Assessment to Upgrade Your Facility’, providing practical advice on conducting assessments and presenting findings to encourage investment.

‘What’s in Your Shed?’ is a special practical workshop taking place across both events. Jack Langley (Ashton Gate Stadium) will lead the session in Bristol, whilst Vic Demain (Durham County Cricket Club) will take the lead in Durham. This workshop gives a behind-the-scenes look at the machinery, fertilisers and irrigation methods used to maintain top-quality surfaces.

Both events will also include a panel session looking at ‘Dealing with Climate Change Challenges at Professional Venues’. At Bristol, panellists include Jack Langley, Sean Williams (Gloucestershire CCC), and Alex Vickers. The Durham panel features Vic Dermain, Alex Vickers, and Aaron Tong (Hull City MKM Stadium).

Sarah Hunter, Head of Events at the GMA, said: “It’s fantastic to have such knowledgeable experts speaking at GMA Connect, and there’s more to be announced, too! Their practical advice will be invaluable to everyone attending. These events are designed to provide hands-on learning and direct access to industry specialists, making them an essential opportunity for grounds professionals looking to develop their skills and improve their facilities.”

Tickets for GMA Connect are free for GMA members, while non-members can attend for £15. Membership offers even more value, providing access to exclusive resources, training and learning discount, Member Assistance Programme including high street discounts plus much more!

For more information about the GMA Connect series, or to register, please visit thegma.org.uk/events/.

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