Introduction

Strimmers and Brush Cutters are handheld power tools used in forestry, parks, and garden maintenance works. They are very similar machines in terms of how to use them. The difference is that a strimmer cuts using a nylon line and so is limited to grass and light strimming works, versus a brush cutter that handles tougher vegetation such as brambles, cutting through with a metal blade.

This NPORS Strimmer/Brush Cutter qualification enables delegates to demonstrate skill, knowledge, and competence in using a strimmer and brush cutter following NPORS guidance.

Course Outline

Through a mix of practical and theory-based exercises and tutorials, delegates will cover manufacturer and general knowledge and awareness of strimmers and brush cutters and participate in practical activities to learn best practices and operating methods to use them.

The course reflects national standards and industry best practices and is fully accredited in line with regulations. In addition, choose to learn with Citrus, and delegates will benefit from our custom-built training facilities and customer-first approach.

Our occupationally and technically-experienced trainers coach delegates on this course, completing the session with a practical observation and short answer question paper. They must pass the assessment to qualify for the NPORS accredited card, valid for three years.

Course Programme

Delegates taking this Strimmer/Brush Cutter training will cover knowledge, skills and operating practice.

Course content includes: 

• All pre-operational checks, following safety and regulatory rules  
• Worksite preparation, including setting up exclusion zones  
• PPE specific to handling strimmers and brush cutters  
• Storage and transport of the equipment 
• Identifying and using manufacturer approved cutting equipment   
• The disposal of cut materials
• All closing down procedures 

On Completion

Upon successfully completing this qualification, delegates will confidently:

• Understand legal requirements and responsibility of using a strimmer and brush cutter
• Select the appropriate machinery and PPE required for the work
• Choose proper safety equipment and carry out learned pre-use checks
• Be able to prepare a site ready for strimming and cutting work correctly
• Identify and rectify any potential hazards
• Understand the importance of using manufacturer approved equipment
• Conduct a practical exercise safely and efficiently

Delegates who pass the course will receive a Traditional Operators card, valid for three or five years, dependent on sector-specific or in-company requirements  

Who Should Attend?

The NPORS Strimmer/Brush Cutter training is for anyone needing to use a Strimmer or Brush Cutter in the course of their work.

Course Duration

This course takes one or two days to complete, depending on experience:

Novice – For those with no experience or formal training - two days with a maximum of four delegates

Refresher – For delegates who have an expired card or training certificate - one day with a maximum of six delegates

Experience Worker Assessment – Theory and practical test only - one day with a maximum of six delegates

Why Citrus?

We dedicate our efforts to unrivalled quality and the customer experience at Citrus Training. As a result, we are the leading UK-based provider of health, safety and technical training and assessment services to the Built Environment and Utility sectors.

Citrus Training serves 85 of the top 100 building services companies in the market. With nearly 20-years of sector-specific experience, we’ve gained invaluable training experiences and knowledge to pass on to our delegates.

Our Tools and Equipment training is accredited, regulated, and has exceptionally high standards. Assessing short and long-term workplace risks, we teach and promote current industry and legislative requirements to ensure delegates take them forward into their daily working lives.

Our occupationally experienced NPORS educators deliver courses at our nationwide, industry-leading and accredited training centres, offering the very best of training standards and quality assurance.

Things You Need to Know

For training held at your location, please ensure that the classroom you make available has a power supply and is a suitable size for the number of delegates attending. In addition, please ensure that the practical area has been risk-assessed, is free from harm, and is ideal for training.

Delegates must be 18 or over. Before starting the course, they must inform their trainer of any special considerations, medication or physical restrictions that may cause difficulties in any part of the training.

A CITB grant is available for companies registered with the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB). Enquire to learn more about funding options.