LANDSCAPE ONTARIO – WORKPLACE SAFETY TAILGATE TALKS
76 © 2026, WSPS.CA
Always turn the mower blades off when crossing a sidewalk
or a driveway.
Stop the mower immediately if the blade has hit an object.
Remove keys and properly store equipment in a safe place.
Never leave mower unattended.
Riding Mowers/Lawn Tractors
Disengage all drive clutches and shift into neutral before
starting/stopping.
Start the machine only from the operator's position and ensure
all mechanisms are operational before moving ahead.
Before leaving the machine, set brakes and put transmission in
park, if possible, and turn off the engine.
Machines over 20 HP require a roll-over protective structure
(ROPS). Ensure seatbelts are properly functioning and worn at
all times when using equipment where there is a ROPS in place.
Back up only when absolutely necessary and always look before
you move backwards.
Always turn off the mower if removing a grass catcher or bag.
Disengage engine prior to investigating any noticeable vibration
or loose connections.
Mowing on Slopes
Avoid mowing on slopes if possible.
Mow across the slope with push/power mower.
Do not mow up and down the slope with a push mower.
Mow up and down slopes with a riding mower. The heavy end
of the equipment should be uphill. When unloaded, the rear end
of the equipment should be uphill. It is recommended you not
operate a riding mower on a slope if possible.
Do not start or stop equipment on slopes as the sudden starts
may cause rear overturn. Only turn a riding mower vertically on
a slope.
Only experienced operators with the physical strength to handle
the mower should operate the mower on a slope.
