Working Safely in Shrub, Lawn, and Garden Services Fatality File

Employee’s Left Hand Amputated by Lawn Mower Blade

At approximately 9:08 p.m. on March 7, 2009, Employee #1 was using a lawn mower at a private residence. The lawn mower was jammed with wet grass. Employee #1 attempted to use his hand to pull out some of the grass from the bottom of the lawn mower, when the rotating blade amputated his left hand. Employee #2 ran to assist Employee #1, and requested the home owner call for medical help. Employee #1 was transported to a hospital where he was treated and hospitalized for two days. The incident was reported to the state on the same day.

Source: osha.gov/