Electric motor-operated hand-held tools, transportable tools and lawn and garden machinery - Safety - Part 4-4: Particular requirements for lawn trimmers, lawn edge trimmers, grass trimmers, brush cutters and brush saws

IEC 62841-4-4:2020 This document applies to hand-held and walk-behind lawn trimmers and lawn edge trimmers, used by a standing operator for cutting grass, weeds or similar soft vegetation, and grass trimmers, brush cutters and brush saws used by a standing operator for cutting grass, weeds, brush, bushes, saplings and similar vegetation.
This document does not apply to
– hand-held machines having a mass of 18 kg or greater;
– self-propelled lawn trimmers or lawn edge trimmers;
– scissors type lawn trimmers and lawn edge trimmers;
– machines equipped with metallic cutting accessories consisting of more than one piece, e.g. pivoting chains or flail blades;
– edgers with rigid and/or metallic cutting devices.
Annex EE provides an informative summary of characteristics for lawn trimmers, lawn edge trimmers, grass trimmers, brush cutters and brush saws.
Brush cutters and brush saws covered by this document are designed only to be operated with the machine to the right of the operator.

Outils électroportatifs à moteur, outils portables et machines pour jardins et pelouses - Sécurité - Partie 4-4: Exigences particulières pour les taille-gazon, les coupe-bordures, les coupe-herbes, les débroussailleuses et les débroussailleuses à lame de scie

IEC 62841-4-4:2020 Le présent document s’applique aux taille-gazon et coupe-bordures actionnés par un opérateur debout pour couper l’herbe, les mauvaises herbes ou une végétation tendre similaire, et aux coupe-herbes, débroussailleuses et débroussailleuses à lame de scie utilisés par un opérateur debout pour couper l’herbe, les mauvaises herbes, les broussailles, les buissons, les jeunes arbres et la végétation similaire.
Le présent document ne s’applique pas
– aux machines portatives d’une masse supérieure ou égale à 18 kg;
– aux taille-gazon ou coupe-bordures autopropulsés;
– aux taille-gazon ou coupe-bordures de type ciseaux;
– aux machines équipées d’accessoires de coupe métalliques composés de plusieurs éléments (chaînes pivotantes ou lames de fléau, par exemple);
– aux coupe-bordures à dispositif de coupe rigide et/ou métallique.
L’Annexe EE donne un récapitulatif informatif des caractéristiques des taille-gazon, des coupe-bordures, des coupe-herbes, des débroussailleuses et des débroussailleuses à lame de scie.
Les débroussailleuses et débroussailleuses à lame de scie couvertes par le présent document sont uniquement conçues pour être utilisées à la droite de l’opérateur.

General Information

Status
Published
Publication Date
17-Oct-2024
Current Stage
PPUB - Publication issued
Start Date
18-Nov-2020
Completion Date
23-Oct-2020
Ref Project

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Standard
IEC 62841-4-4:2020+AMD1:2024 CSV - Electric motor-operated hand-held tools, transportable tools and lawn and garden machinery - Safety - Part 4-4: Particular requirements for lawn trimmers, lawn edge trimmers, grass trimmers, brush cutters and brush saws Released:18. 10. 2024 Isbn:9782832299197
English language
236 pages
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Standard
IEC 62841-4-4:2020 - Electric motor-operated hand-held tools, transportable tools and lawn and garden machinery - Safety - Part 4-4: Particular requirements for lawn trimmers, lawn edge trimmers, grass trimmers, brush cutters and brush saws
English and French language
237 pages
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IEC 62841-4-4 ®
Edition 1.1 2024-10
CONSOLIDATED VERSION
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
colour
inside
Electric motor-operated hand-held tools, transportable tools and lawn and
garden machinery – Safety –
Part 4-4: Particular requirements for lawn trimmers, lawn edge trimmers, grass
trimmers, brush cutters and brush saws

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IEC 62841-4-4 ®
Edition 1.1 2024-10
CONSOLIDATED VERSION
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
colour
inside
Electric motor-operated hand-held tools, transportable tools and lawn and
garden machinery – Safety –
Part 4-4: Particular requirements for lawn trimmers, lawn edge trimmers, grass
trimmers, brush cutters and brush saws
INTERNATIONAL
ELECTROTECHNICAL
COMMISSION
ICS 25.140.20 ISBN 978-2-8322-9919-7
REDLINE VERSION – 2 – IEC 62841-4-4:2020+AMD1:2024 CSV
© IEC 2024
CONTENTS
FOREWORD . 5
INTRODUCTION . 8
1 Scope . 9
2 Normative references . 9
3 Terms and definitions . 10
4 General requirements . 18
5 General conditions for the tests . 18
6 Radiation, toxicity and similar hazards . 18
7 Classification . 18
8 Marking and instructions . 19
9 Protection against access to live parts . 26
10 Starting . 26
11 Input and current . 26
12 Heating . 27
13 Resistance to heat and fire . 28
14 Moisture resistance . 28
15 Resistance to rusting . 29
16 Overload protection of transformers and associated circuits . 29
17 Endurance . 29
18 Abnormal operation . 30
19 Mechanical hazards . 32
20 Mechanical strength . 46
21 Construction . 54
22 Internal wiring . 64
23 Components . 64
24 Supply connection and external flexible cords . 65
25 Terminals for external conductors . 67
26 Provision for earthing . 67
27 Screws and connections . 67
28 Creepage distances, clearances and distances through insulation . 67
Annexes . 72
Annex I (informative) Measurement of noise and vibration emissions . 72
Annex K (normative) Battery tools and battery packs . 81
Annex L (normative) Battery tools and battery packs provided with mains connection
or non-isolated sources . 95
Annex AA (normative) Safety signs which may be used on machines . 100
Annex BB (normative) Thrown objects test for grass trimmers, brush cutters and brush
saws . 111
Annex CC (normative) Impact test for brush cutter and brush saw cutting accessories
and grass trimmer cutting means . 115
Annex DD (informative) Example of a material and construction fulfilling the
requirements for an artificial surface . 116

© IEC 2024
Annex EE (informative) Summary of characteristics for lawn trimmers, lawn edge
trimmers, grass trimmers, brush cutters and brush saws . 118
Bibliography . 120

Figure 101 – Example of a brush cutter . 12
Figure 102 – Example of a brush saw . 13
Figure 103 – Examples of grass trimmers . 14
Figure 104 – Example of a lawn edge trimmer . 15
Figure 105 – Example of a lawn trimmer . 16
Figure 106 – Example of a walk-behind trimmer . 17
Figure 107 – Minimum guard coverage, lawn trimmer (see 19.101.1) . 34
Figure 108 – Cross-sectional view of lawn edge trimmer cutting means guard . 36
Figure 109 – Shaft angle measurement . 37
Figure 110 – Lawn edge trimmer guarding when θ < 45° . 38
Figure 111 – Lawn edge trimmer guarding when θ ≥ 45° . 39
Figure 112 – Measurement of handle gripping length . 41
Figure 113 – Measurement of distance between handles for grass trimmers, brush

cutters and brush saws . 42
Figure 114 – Examples of brush cutters and brush saws with different handle and
barrier configurations: Measurement of distance to cutting accessory . 44
Figure 115 – Impact test apparatus for handle insulation . 49
Figure 116 – Cutting means guard drop test . 50
Figure 117 – Cutting head strength test . 51
Figure 118 – Cutting accessory guard test . 53
Figure 122 – Application of steel rod when rotated around the handle . 57
Figure 123 – Application of steel rod when applied in the direction perpendicular to the
handle axis . 57
Figure 119 – Example of an operator presence sensor. 58
Figure 120 – Lawn trimmer and lawn edge trimmer cutting means measurement . 60
Figure 121 – Test assembly for accessibility of attachment plug blades . 66
Figure I.101 – Microphone positions on the hemisphere (see Table I.101) . 72
Figure I.102 – Examples of positions of transducers (hand-held machines) .
Figure I.103 – Examples of positions of transducers (walk-behind machines) . 79
Figure AA.1 – Optional safety sign illustrating – "Wear eye and ear protection" . 100
Figure AA.2 – Optional safety sign illustrating – "Wear eye and head protection" . 100
Figure AA.3 – Optional safety sign illustrating – "Wear eye, ear and head protection" . 101
Figure AA.4 – Safety signs illustrating – "Wear eye protection" . 102
Figure AA.5 – Safety sign illustrating – "Wear ear protection" . 103
Figure AA.6 – Safety sign illustrating – "Do not expose to rain" . 103
Figure AA.7 – Safety signs illustrating – "WARNING – Keep bystanders away" . 104
Figure AA.8 – Safety signs illustrating – "WARNING – The distance between the
machine and bystanders shall be at least 15 m (50 ft)" .
Figure AA.9 – Safety sign illustrating – "WARNING – Beware of thrown objects" . 105
Figure AA.10 – Safety sign illustrating – "Wear head protection where there is a risk of
falling objects " . 106

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© IEC 2024
Figure AA.11 – Safety sign illustrating – "Wear hand protection" . 106
Figure AA.12 – Safety sign illustrating – "Wear slip-resistant footwear" . 106
Figure AA.13 – Safety signs illustrating – "WARNING – Beware of blade thrust" . 107
Figure AA.14 – Alternative safety signs illustrating – "WARNING – Beware of blade
thrust" . 108
Figure AA.15 – Safety sign illustrating – "Do not use metal blades" . 108
Figure AA.16 – Safety sign illustrating – "WARNING – Remove plug from the mains

immediately if the power cord or cable is damaged or cut" . 109
Figure AA.17 – Safety sign illustrating – "WARNING – Disconnect battery before
maintenance" . 109
Figure AA.18 – Safety sign illustrating – "WARNING – Remove the disabling device
before maintenance" . 109
Figure AA.19 – Safety sign illustrating – "WARNING – Operate the disabling device

before maintenance" . 110
Figure BB.1 – Machine position on test stand . 111
Figure BB.2 – Insertion positions of the test pieces . 112
Figure BB.3 – Test piece . 114
Figure CC.1 – Impact test . 115
Figure DD.1 – Sketch of the measurement surface covered with an artificial surface
(not to scale). 117

Table 2 – Maximum outside surface temperature rises . 28
Table 4 – Required performance levels . 31
Table 7 – Switch trigger force . 54
Table 9 – Pull and torque value . 67
Table 301 – Pull and torque value .
Table 12 – Minimum creepage distances and clearances . 69
Table I.101 – Co-ordinates of microphone positions . 74
Table I.102 – Absorption coefficients . 75
Table 4 – Required performance levels . 86
Table K.1 – Minimum creepage distances and clearances between parts of different
potential . 92
Table K.2 – Minimum total sum of creepage distances and clearances to accessible

surfaces . 94
Table 4 – Required performance levels . 96
Table EE.1 – Machine categories . 118

© IEC 2024
INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
____________
ELECTRIC MOTOR-OPERATED HAND-HELD TOOLS, TRANSPORTABLE
TOOLS AND LAWN AND GARDEN MACHINERY – SAFETY –

Part 4-4: Particular requirements for lawn trimmers, lawn edge trimmers,
grass trimmers, brush cutters and brush saws

FOREWORD
1) The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is a worldwide organization for standardization comprising
all national electrotechnical committees (IEC National Committees). The object of IEC is to promote
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8) Attention is drawn to the Normative references cited in this publication. Use of the referenced publications is
indispensable for the correct application of this publication.
9) IEC draws attention to the possibility that the implementation of this document may involve the use of (a)
patent(s). IEC takes no position concerning the evidence, validity or applicability of any claimed patent rights in
respect thereof. As of the date of publication of this document, IEC had received notice of (a) patent(s), which
may be required to implement this document. However, implementers are cautioned that this may not represent
the latest information, which may be obtained from the patent database available at https://patents.iec.ch. IEC
shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights. IEC shall not be held responsible for
identifying any or all such patent rights.
This consolidated version of the official IEC Standard and its amendment has been
prepared for user convenience.
IEC 62841-4-4 edition 1.1 contains the first edition (2020-11) [documents 116/468/FDIS
and 116/479/RVD] and its amendment 1 (2024-10) [documents 116/806/FDIS and
116/829/RVD].
In this Redline version, a vertical line in the margin shows where the technical content
is modified by amendment 1. Additions are in green text, deletions are in strikethrough

REDLINE VERSION – 6 – IEC 62841-4-4:2020+AMD1:2024 CSV
© IEC 2024
red text. A separate Final version with all changes accepted is available in this
publication.
International Standard IEC 62841-4-4 has been prepared by IEC technical committee 116:
Safety of motor-operated electric tools.
This document has been drafted in accordance with the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2.
This Part 4-4 is to be used in conjunction with the first edition of IEC 62841-1:2014.
This Part 4-4 supplements or modifies the corresponding clauses in IEC 62841-1, so as to
convert it into the IEC Standard: Particular requirements for lawn trimmers, lawn edge
trimmers, grass trimmers, brush cutters and brush saws.
Where a particular subclause of Part 1 is not mentioned in this Part 4-4, that subclause
applies as far as reasonable. Where this standard states "addition", "modification" or
"replacement", the relevant text in Part 1 is to be adapted accordingly.
The following print types are used:
– requirements: in roman type;
– test specifications: in italic type;
– notes: in small roman type.
The terms defined in Clause 3 are printed in bold typeface.
Subclauses, notes, tables and figures which are additional to those in Part 1 as well as
Annexes of Part 1, except as described for Annex K and Annex L below, are numbered
starting from 101.
Subclauses, notes, tables and figures in Annex K and Annex L which are additional to those in
the main body of this Part 4-4 are numbered starting from 301.
A list of all parts of the IEC 62841 series, under the general title: Electric motor-operated
hand-held tools, transportable tools and lawn and garden machinery – Safety, can be found
on the IEC website.
© IEC 2024
The committee has decided that the contents of this document and its amendment will remain
unchanged until the stability date indicated on the IEC website under webstore.iec.ch in the
data related to the specific document. At this date, the document will be
• reconfirmed,
• withdrawn, or
• revised.
NOTE The attention of National Committees is drawn to the fact that equipment manufacturers and testing
organizations may need a transitional period following publication of a new, amended or revised IEC publication in
which to make products in accordance with the new requirements and to equip themselves for conducting new or
revised tests.
It is the recommendation of the committee that the content of this publication be adopted for implementation
nationally not earlier than 36 months from the date of publication.

IMPORTANT – The "colour inside" logo on the cover page of this document indicates
that it contains colours which are considered to be useful for the correct
understanding of its contents. Users should therefore print this document using a
colour printer.
REDLINE VERSION – 8 – IEC 62841-4-4:2020+AMD1:2024 CSV
© IEC 2024
INTRODUCTION
The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) draws attention to the fact that it is
claimed that compliance with this document may involve the use of patents concerning
prevention of inadvertent starting given in Subclause 21.18.101.
IEC takes no position concerning the evidence, validity and scope of this patent right.
The holders of these patent rights have assured the IEC that they are willing to negotiate
licences under reasonable and non-discriminatory terms and conditions with applicants
throughout the world. In this respect, the statements of the holders of these patent rights are
registered with IEC. Information may be obtained from:
Andreas Stihl AG & Co. KG
Stuttgarter Strasse 80
71332 Waiblingen, Germany
Husqvarna AB
SE-561 82 Huskvarna
Sweden
Robert Bosch GmbH
Postfach 30 02 20
D-70442 Stuttgart, Germany
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the
subject of patent rights other than those identified above. IEC shall not be held responsible
for identifying any or all such patent rights.
ISO (www.iso.org/patents) and IEC (http://patents.iec.ch) maintain on-line data bases of
patents relevant to their standards. Users are encouraged to consult the data bases for the
most up to date information concerning patents.

© IEC 2024
ELECTRIC MOTOR-OPERATED HAND-HELD TOOLS, TRANSPORTABLE
TOOLS AND LAWN AND GARDEN MACHINERY – SAFETY –

Part 4-4: Particular requirements for lawn trimmers, lawn edge trimmers,
grass trimmers, brush cutters and brush saws

1 Scope
This clause of Part 1 is applicable, except as follows:
Addition:
This document applies to hand-held and walk-behind lawn trimmers and lawn edge
trimmers, used by a standing operator for cutting grass, weeds or similar soft vegetation, and
grass trimmers, brush cutters and brush saws used by a standing operator for cutting
grass, weeds, brush, bushes, saplings and similar vegetation.
This document does not apply to
– hand-held machines having a mass of 18 kg or greater;
– self-propelled lawn trimmers or lawn edge trimmers;
– scissors type lawn trimmers and lawn edge trimmers;
– machines equipped with metallic cutting accessories consisting of more than one piece,
e.g. pivoting chains or flail blades;
– edgers with rigid and/or metallic cutting devices.
NOTE 101 Freely pivoting non-metallic cutting elements are considered not to be rigid cutting devices.
NOTE 102 Edgers with rigid or metal cutting devices will be covered by a future part of IEC 62841-4.
NOTE 103 Annex EE provides an informative summary of characteristics for lawn trimmers, lawn edge
trimmers, grass trimmers, brush cutters and brush saws.
Brush cutters and brush saws covered by this document are designed only to be operated
with the machine to the right of the operator.
2 Normative references
This clause of Part 1 is applicable, except as follows:
Replacement of undated normative reference for ISO 3744:
ISO 3744:2010, Acoustics – Determination of sound power levels and sound energy levels of
noise sources using sound pressure – Engineering methods for an essentially free field over a
reflecting plane
Addition:
IEC 60664-3, Insulation coordination for equipment within low-voltage systems – Part 3: Use
of coating, potting or moulding for protection against pollution
IEC 60664-4, Insulation coordination for equipment within low-voltage systems – Part 4:
Consideration of high-frequency voltage stress

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© IEC 2024
ISO 354:2003, Acoustics – Measurement of sound absorption in a reverberation room
ISO 683-4:2016, Heat-treatable steels, alloy steels and free-cutting steels – Part 4:
Free-cutting steels
ISO 7918:1995, Forestry machinery – Portable brush-cutters and grass-trimmers – Cutting
attachment guard dimensions
ISO 11201:2010, Acoustics – Noise emitted by machinery and equipment – Determination of
emission sound pressure levels at a work station and at other specified positions in an
essentially free field over a reflecting plane with negligible environmental corrections
ISO 22867:2021, Forestry and gardening machinery – Vibration test code for portable hand-
held machines with internal combustion engine – Vibration at the handles
ISO 22868:20112021, Forestry and gardening machinery – Noise test code for portable hand-
held machines with internal combustion engine – Engineering method (Grade 2 accuracy)
3 Terms and definitions
This clause of Part 1 is applicable, except as follows:
3.16 Addition:
Note 101 to entry: Interchangeable attachments such as a lower shaft assembly or an interchangeable guard are
considered not to be detachable parts.
Addition:
3.101
barrier
device attached to the machine, designed to maintain a minimum distance between the
operator and the cutting accessory when the machine is being operated
3.102
blade thrust
sudden sideways, forward or backward motion of the machine, which may occur when the
cutting accessory jams or catches on an object such as a sapling or a tree stump
3.103
brush cutter
machine with a rotating cutting accessory intended to cut weeds, scrub, brush, and similar
vegetation
Note 101 to entry: See Figure 101.
3.104
brush saw
machine with a rotating circular metal cutting accessory having peripheral cutting teeth,
designed to cut wood, such as small trees and saplings, by continuously removing material
Note 101 to entry: See Figure 102.
3.105
cutting accessory
rigid cutting device made of metal or plastic, used on brush cutters and brush saws

© IEC 2024
3.106
cutting element
single non-metallic filament line or freely pivoting non-metallic cutter
3.107
cutting head
support and retention system for the cutting means
Note 101 to entry: Cutting heads are used on lawn trimmers, lawn edge trimmers and grass trimmers.
3.108
cutting means
assembly of non-metallic filament line(s) or freely pivoting non-metallic cutter(s) that rotates
about an axis perpendicular to the cutting plane, used to provide the cutting action by one or
more cutting elements
Note 101 to entry: Cutting means are used on lawn trimmers, lawn edge trimmers and grass trimmers.
3.109
grass trimmer
machine with a cutting means, intended to cut small weeds, grass or similar soft vegetation,
where the cutting means operates in a plane approximately parallel to the ground
Note 101 to entry: See Figure 103.
3.110
hand-held trimmer
lawn trimmer or lawn edge trimmer which is supported by hand, possibly assisted by
wheel(s), skids or harness, etc. and constructed such that it cannot maintain its operating
position without being held by an operator
3.111
lawn edge trimmer
machine with a cutting means for cutting grass or similar soft vegetation where the cutting
means operates in a plane approximately perpendicular to the ground
Note 101 to entry: See Figure 104.
Note 102 to entry: The maximum kinetic energy for cutting elements on lawn edge trimmers is specified
in 21.101.
3.112
lawn trimmer
machine with a cutting means for cutting grass or similar soft vegetation where the cutting
means operates in a plane approximately parallel to the ground
Note 101 to entry: See Figure 105.
Note 102 to entry: The maximum kinetic energy for cutting elements on lawn trimmers is specified in 21.101.
3.113
maximum speed
highest output speed attainable under all conditions of normal use, including no load
3.114
operator presence sensor
device to detect the presence of an operator's hand

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© IEC 2024
3.115
shaft
element of the machine that distances the cutting accessory or cutting means from the
handles
3.116
walk-behind trimmer
lawn trimmer or lawn edge trimmer which is ground supported, controlled by an operator
walking behind and constructed such that it maintains its operating position without being held
by an operator
Note 101 to entry: See Figure 106.

Key
1 power switch
2 lock-off device
3 barrier
4 suspension point
5 cutting accessory guard
6 cutting accessory
Figure 101 – Example of a brush cutter

© IEC 2024
Key
1 power switch
2 lock-off device
3 barrier
4 suspension point
5 cutting accessory guard
6 cutting accessory
Figure 102 – Example of a brush saw

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© IEC 2024
a) Grass trimmer with straight shaft

b) Grass trimmer with curved shaft
Key
1 power switch
2 lock-off device
3 cutting means guard
4 cutting means
Figure 103 – Examples of grass trimmers

© IEC 2024
Key
1 power switch
2 lock-off device (if any)
3 cutting means guard
4 cutting means
Figure 104 – Example of a lawn edge trimmer

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© IEC 2024
Key
1 power switch
2 lock-off device (if any)
3 cutting means guard
4 cutting means
Figure 105 – Example of a lawn trimmer

© IEC 2024
Key
1 power switch
2 lock-off device (if any)
3 grass catcher (if any)
4 cutting means guard
Figure 106 – Example of a walk-behind trimmer

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© IEC 2024
4 General requirements
This clause of Part 1 is applicable.
5 General conditions for the tests
This clause of Part 1 is applicable, except as follows:
5.4 Addition:
Handle positions that are used for storage or transportation purposes are not included in this
requirement.
5.17 Addition:
For brush cutters and brush saws, the mass of the machine includes the heaviest cutting
accessory in accordance with 8.14.2 a) 101) and 8.14.2 a) 104), but excludes the cutting
accessory cover, harness and hip pad, if any.
For lawn trimmers, lawn edge trimmers and grass trimmers, the mass of the machine
includes the cutting head
– with freely pivoting non-metallic cutters, if any; and
– with a spool for non-metallic filament line, if any;
– without the non-metallic filament line, if any;
and for hand-held trimmers, wheels or skids, if any.
5.101 The tests are carried out on the machine as supplied. However, a machine
constructed as a single machine but supplied in an unassembled state is tested after
assembly in accordance with 8.14.2.
5.102 Unless otherwise specified, for Clause 19 and Clause 21, machines are tested in each
operating configuration as described in 8.14.2.
5.103 For tests that are performed at maximum speed and no load, the manufacturer may
need to provide special hardware and/or software.
6 Radiation, toxicity and similar hazards
This clause of Part 1 is applicable.
7 Classification
This clause of Part 1 is applicable, except as follows:
7.1 Replacement:
Machines shall be of one of the following classes with respect to protection against electric
shock:
class II tool (machine), class III tool (machine)

© IEC 2024
Compliance is checked by inspection and by the relevant tests.
7.2 Addition:
Walk-behind trimmers that are a class II tool (machine) shall be classified at least as IPX4.
8 Marking and instructions
This clause of Part 1 is applicable, except as follows:
8.1 Addition:
Grass trimmers, brush cutters and brush saws shall be marked with the maximum speed of
the spindle assigned by the manufacturer.
The cutting head for grass trimmers and the cutting accessories for brush cutters and
brush saws shall be marked with their maximum permitted rotational speed.
8.2.101 Additional safety markings
8.2.101.1 General
Machines shall be marked with cautionary statements or instructions as specified in 8.2.101.2
to 8.2.101.8. A combination of ISO safety signs, such as eye, ear and head protection, is
allowed. In addition, a combination of safety signs as specified in Figure AA.1, Figure AA.2
and Figure AA.3 is allowed.
Compliance is checked by inspection.
8.2.101.2 For all machines, unless otherwise specified:
– "Wear eye protection" or a relevant safety sign of ISO 7010 or one of the safety signs
specified in Figure AA.4. This marking may be omitted for walk-behind trimmers with
360 degree guarding of the cutting means;
– "Wear ear protection" or a relevant safety sign of ISO 7010 or the safety sign specified in
Figure AA.5. This marking may be omitted if the measured A-weighted emission sound
pressure level at the operator position in accordance with Annex I does not exceed
85 dB(A);
– the primary direction of rotation of the spindle, by a legible and durable mark that is visible
when operating the machine. This marking may be on the guard. This marking may be
omitted for walk-behind trimmers, machines with no primary direction (i.e. dual direction)
of rotation of the spindle, or machines with 360 degree guarding of the cutting means.
– " WARNING – Keep bystanders away" or one of the safety signs specified in Figure
AA.7;
– safety sign W017 of ISO 7010 (2011-05) in accordance with Table 2, if applicable.
8.2.101.3 For all hand-held machines with a degree of protection of less than IPX4:
– "Do not expose to rain" or the safety sign specified in Figure AA.6.
8.2.101.4 For lawn trimmers and lawn edge trimmers:
– " WARNING – Keep bystanders away" or one of the safety signs specified in
Figure AA.7.
REDLINE VERSION – 20 – IEC 62841-4-4:2020+AMD1:2024 CSV
© IEC 2024
8.2.101.5 For grass trimmers, brush cutters and brush saws:
– " WARNING – The distance between the machine and bystanders shall be at least
15 m", where "15 m" may be replaced by either "50 ft" or "15 m (50 ft)" or one of the safety
signs specified in Figure AA.8;
– " WARNING – Beware of thrown objects", or the safety sign specified in Figure AA.9.
8.2.101.6 For brush cutters and brush saws:
– "Wear head protection where there is a risk of falling objects" or a relevant safety sign of
ISO 7010 or the safety sign specified in Figure AA.10;
– "Wear hand protection" or a relevant safety sign of ISO 7010 or the safety sign specified in
Figure AA.11;
– "Wear slip-resistant footwear" or the safety sign specified in Figure AA.12;
– " WARNING – Beware of blade thrust", or one of the safety signs specified in either
Figure AA.13 or Figure AA.14.
8.2.101.7 For grass trimmers that cannot be converted to a brush cutter or brush saw in
accordance with 8.14.2 a) 104):
– "Do not use metal blades", or the safety sign specified in Figure AA.15.
8.2.101.8 For mains supplied machines:
– " WARNING – Remove plug from the mains immediately if the cable is damaged or cut"
or the safety sign specified in Figure AA.16.
8.3.101 For grass trimmers, brush cutters and brush saws, the cutting head or cutting
accessory shall be marked with the following information:
– intended direction of rotation, if any;
– name or trade mark of the manufacturer.
8.3.102 For grass trimmers, brush cutters and brush saws, where the minimum handle
distance is not prevented by design, the machine shall be marked with an indication on the
machine as to the placement of the handle to meet the minimum handle distance requirement
of 19.102.1.2.
8.4 Replacement of the first paragraph:
Markings specified in 8.1 to 8.3 shall not be on a detachable part of the machine, except for
– the marking of the primary direction of rotation of the spindle required in 8.2; and
– the markings required in 8.2, 8.2.101 and 8.3.101
which may be on the guard.
8.6 Modification of the following unit:
n . maximum speed
n maximum speed assigned by the manufacturer in accordance with 8.1
8.12 Replacement of the first paragraph:
Markings required by the standard shall be legible and durable. Signs shall be in contrast
such as colour, texture, or relief, to their background such that the information or instructions
provided by the signs are clearly legible when viewed with normal vision from a distance of

© IEC 2024
(500 ± 50) mm. Signs need not be in accordance with the colour requirements of ISO 3864-2.
If markings are embossed, stamped, etched, engraved or moulded, contrasting colours are
not required.
8.14.1 Addition:
The additional safety instructions as specified in 8.14.1.101 to 8.14.1.103 shall be given. This
part may be printed separately from the "General Machine Safety Warnings".
NOTE 101 "General Machine Safety Warnings" are referred to as "General Power Tool Safety Warnings" in
Part 1.
8.14.1.1 Addition for item 2) c):
For machines classified at least IPX4, the warning may be replaced as specified below.
c) Do not operate the machine in rain or wet conditions. Water entering the machine may
increase the risk of electric shock or malfunction that could result in personal injury.
8.14.1.101 Lawn trimmer and lawn edge trimmer safety warnings
a) Do not use the machine in bad weather conditions, especially when there is a risk of
lightning. This decreases the risk of being struck by lightning.
b) Thoroughly inspect the area for wildlife where the machine is to be used. Wildlife may
be injured by the machine during operation.
c) Thoroughly inspect the area where the machine is to be used and remove all stones,
sticks, wires, bones, and other foreign objects. Thrown objects can cause personal
injury.
d) Before using the machine, always visually inspect to see that the cutter and the
cutter assembly are not damaged. Damaged parts increase the risk of injury.
e) Before use, check the supply cord and any extension cord for signs of damage or
aging. Do not use the machine if the cord is damaged or worn. If the cord is
damaged or worn during use, switch off the machine and do not touch the cord
before disconnecting it from the supply. A damaged supply cord or extension cord
may result in electric shock, fire and/or serious injury.
f) Check the grass collector frequently for wear or deterioration. A worn or damaged
grass collector may increase the risk of personal injury.
NOTE 101 The warning in item f) above is omitted if the machine does not have a provision for fitting a grass
collector.
NOTE 102 The term "collector" can be replaced by the ter
...


IEC 62841-4-4 ®
Edition 1.0 2020-11
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
Electric motor-operated hand-held tools, transportable tools and lawn and
garden machinery – Safety –
Part 4-4: Particular requirements for lawn trimmers, lawn edge trimmers, grass
trimmers, brush cutters and brush saws

Outils électroportatifs à moteur, outils portables et machines pour jardins et
pelouses – Sécurité –
Partie 4-4: Exigences particulières pour les taille-gazon, les coupe-bordures,
les coupe-herbes, les débroussailleuses et les débroussailleuses à lame de scie

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IEC 62841-4-4 ®
Edition 1.0 2020-11
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
Electric motor-operated hand-held tools, transportable tools and lawn and

garden machinery – Safety –
Part 4-4: Particular requirements for lawn trimmers, lawn edge trimmers, grass

trimmers, brush cutters and brush saws

Outils électroportatifs à moteur, outils portables et machines pour jardins et

pelouses – Sécurité –
Partie 4-4: Exigences particulières pour les taille-gazon, les coupe-bordures,

les coupe-herbes, les débroussailleuses et les débroussailleuses à lame de scie

INTERNATIONAL
ELECTROTECHNICAL
COMMISSION
COMMISSION
ELECTROTECHNIQUE
INTERNATIONALE
ICS 25.140.20 ISBN 978-2-8322-8897-9

– 2 – IEC 62841-4-4:2020 © IEC 2020
CONTENTS
FOREWORD . 5
INTRODUCTION . 7
1 Scope . 8
2 Normative references . 8
3 Terms and definitions . 9
4 General requirements . 17
5 General conditions for the tests . 17
6 Radiation, toxicity and similar hazards . 17
7 Classification . 17
8 Marking and instructions . 18
9 Protection against access to live parts . 25
10 Starting . 25
11 Input and current . 25
12 Heating . 26
13 Resistance to heat and fire . 26
14 Moisture resistance . 27
15 Resistance to rusting . 27
16 Overload protection of transformers and associated circuits . 27
17 Endurance . 28
18 Abnormal operation . 28
19 Mechanical hazards . 31
20 Mechanical strength . 45
21 Construction . 53
22 Internal wiring . 60
23 Components . 61
24 Supply connection and external flexible cords . 62
25 Terminals for external conductors . 63
26 Provision for earthing . 64
27 Screws and connections . 64
28 Creepage distances, clearances and distances through insulation . 64
Annexes . 69
Annex I (informative) Measurement of noise and vibration emissions . 69
Annex K (normative) Battery tools and battery packs . 78
Annex L (normative) Battery tools and battery packs provided with mains connection
or non-isolated sources . 91
Annex AA (normative) Safety signs which may be used on machines . 96
Annex BB (normative) Thrown objects test for grass trimmers, brush cutters and brush
saws . 105
Annex CC (normative) Impact test for brush cutter and brush saw cutting accessories
and grass trimmer cutting means . 109
Annex DD (informative) Example of a material and construction fulfilling the
requirements for an artificial surface . 110

Annex EE (informative) Summary of characteristics for lawn trimmers, lawn edge
trimmers, grass trimmers, brush cutters and brush saws . 112
Bibliography . 114

Figure 101 – Example of a brush cutter . 11
Figure 102 – Example of a brush saw . 12
Figure 103 – Examples of grass trimmers . 13
Figure 104 – Example of a lawn edge trimmer . 14
Figure 105 – Example of a lawn trimmer . 15
Figure 106 – Example of a walk-behind trimmer . 16
Figure 107 – Minimum guard coverage, lawn trimmer (see 19.101.1) . 33
Figure 108 – Cross-sectional view of lawn edge trimmer cutting means guard . 35
Figure 109 – Shaft angle measurement . 36
Figure 110 – Lawn edge trimmer guarding when θ < 45° . 37
Figure 111 – Lawn edge trimmer guarding when θ ≥ 45° . 38
Figure 112 – Measurement of handle gripping length . 40
Figure 113 – Measurement of distance between handles for grass trimmers, brush

cutters and brush saws . 41
Figure 114 – Examples of brush cutters and brush saws with different handle and
barrier configurations: Measurement of distance to cutting accessory . 43
Figure 115 – Impact test apparatus for handle insulation . 48
Figure 116 – Cutting means guard drop test . 49
Figure 117 – Cutting head strength test . 50
Figure 118 – Cutting accessory guard test . 52
Figure 119 – Example of an operator presence sensor. 55
Figure 120 – Lawn trimmer and lawn edge trimmer cutting means measurement . 57
Figure 121 – Test assembly for accessibility of attachment plug blades . 63
Figure I.101 – Microphone positions on the hemisphere (see Table I.101) . 69
Figure I.102 – Examples of positions of transducers (hand-held machines) . 75
Figure I.103 – Examples of positions of transducers (walk-behind machines) . 76
Figure AA.1 – Optional safety sign illustrating – "Wear eye and ear protection" . 96
Figure AA.2 – Optional safety sign illustrating – "Wear eye and head protection" . 96
Figure AA.3 – Optional safety sign illustrating – "Wear eye, ear and head protection" . 96
Figure AA.4 – Safety signs illustrating – "Wear eye protection" . 97
Figure AA.5 – Safety sign illustrating – "Wear ear protection" . 97
Figure AA.6 – Safety sign illustrating – "Do not expose to rain" . 98
Figure AA.7 – Safety signs illustrating – "WARNING – Keep bystanders away" . 98
Figure AA.8 – Safety signs illustrating – "WARNING – The distance between the
machine and bystanders shall be at least 15 m (50 ft)" . 99
Figure AA.9 – Safety sign illustrating – "WARNING – Beware of thrown objects" . 99
Figure AA.10 – Safety sign illustrating – "Wear head protection" . 100
Figure AA.11 – Safety sign illustrating – "Wear hand protection" . 100
Figure AA.12 – Safety sign illustrating – "Wear slip-resistant footwear" . 100
Figure AA.13 – Safety signs illustrating – "WARNING – Beware of blade thrust" . 101

– 4 – IEC 62841-4-4:2020 © IEC 2020
Figure AA.14 – Alternative safety signs illustrating – "WARNING – Beware of blade
thrust" . 102
Figure AA.15 – Safety sign illustrating – "Do not use metal blades" . 102
Figure AA.16 – Safety sign illustrating – "WARNING – Remove plug from the mains
immediately if the power cord or cable is damaged or cut" . 103
Figure AA.17 – Safety sign illustrating – "WARNING – Disconnect battery before
maintenance" . 103
Figure AA.18 – Safety sign illustrating – "WARNING – Remove the disabling device
before maintenance" . 103
Figure AA.19 – Safety sign illustrating – "WARNING – Operate the disabling device
before maintenance" . 104
Figure BB.1 – Machine position on test stand . 105
Figure BB.2 – Insertion positions of the test pieces . 106
Figure BB.3 – Test piece . 108
Figure CC.1 – Impact test . 109
Figure DD.1 – Sketch of the measurement surface covered with an artificial surface
(not to scale). 111

Table 4 – Required performance levels . 30
Table 7 – Switch trigger force . 53
Table 9 – Pull and torque value . 63
Table 12 – Minimum creepage distances and clearances . 66
Table I.101 – Co-ordinates of microphone positions . 71
Table I.102 – Absorption coefficients . 72
Table 4 – Required performance levels . 82
Table 301 – Pull and torque value . 88
Table K.1 – Minimum creepage distances and clearances between parts of different
potential . 89
Table K.2 – Minimum total sum of creepage distances and clearances to accessible

surfaces . 90
Table 4 – Required performance levels . 92
Table EE.1 – Machine categories . 112

INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
____________
ELECTRIC MOTOR-OPERATED HAND-HELD TOOLS, TRANSPORTABLE
TOOLS AND LAWN AND GARDEN MACHINERY – SAFETY –

Part 4-4: Particular requirements for lawn trimmers, lawn edge trimmers,
grass trimmers, brush cutters and brush saws

FOREWORD
1) The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is a worldwide organization for standardization comprising
all national electrotechnical committees (IEC National Committees). The object of IEC is to promote
international co-operation on all questions concerning standardization in the electrical and electronic fields. To
this end and in addition to other activities, IEC publishes International Standards, Technical Specifications,
Technical Reports, Publicly Available Specifications (PAS) and Guides (hereafter referred to as "IEC
Publication(s)"). Their preparation is entrusted to technical committees; any IEC National Committee interested
in the subject dealt with may participate in this preparatory work. International, governmental and non-
governmental organizations liaising with the IEC also participate in this preparation. IEC collaborates closely
with the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) in accordance with conditions determined by
agreement between the two organizations.
2) The formal decisions or agreements of IEC on technical matters express, as nearly as possible, an international
consensus of opinion on the relevant subjects since each technical committee has representation from all
interested IEC National Committees.
3) IEC Publications have the form of recommendations for international use and are accepted by IEC National
Committees in that sense. While all reasonable efforts are made to ensure that the technical content of IEC
Publications is accurate, IEC cannot be held responsible for the way in which they are used or for any
misinterpretation by any end user.
4) In order to promote international uniformity, IEC National Committees undertake to apply IEC Publications
transparently to the maximum extent possible in their national and regional publications. Any divergence
between any IEC Publication and the corresponding national or regional publication shall be clearly indicated in
the latter.
5) IEC itself does not provide any attestation of conformity. Independent certification bodies provide conformity
assessment services and, in some areas, access to IEC marks of conformity. IEC is not responsible for any
services carried out by independent certification bodies.
6) All users should ensure that they have the latest edition of this publication.
7) No liability shall attach to IEC or its directors, employees, servants or agents including individual experts and
members of its technical committees and IEC National Committees for any personal injury, property damage or
other damage of any nature whatsoever, whether direct or indirect, or for costs (including legal fees) and
expenses arising out of the publication, use of, or reliance upon, this IEC Publication or any other IEC
Publications.
8) Attention is drawn to the Normative references cited in this publication. Use of the referenced publications is
indispensable for the correct application of this publication.
International Standard IEC 62841-4-4 has been prepared by IEC technical committee 116:
Safety of motor-operated electric tools.
The text of this International Standard is based on the following documents:
FDIS Report on voting
116/468/FDIS 116/479/RVD
Full information on the voting for the approval of this International Standard can be found in
the report on voting indicated in the above table.
This document has been drafted in accordance with the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2.
This Part 4-4 is to be used in conjunction with the first edition of IEC 62841-1:2014.

– 6 – IEC 62841-4-4:2020 © IEC 2020
This Part 4-4 supplements or modifies the corresponding clauses in IEC 62841-1, so as to
convert it into the IEC Standard: Particular requirements for lawn trimmers, lawn edge
trimmers, grass trimmers, brush cutters and brush saws.
Where a particular subclause of Part 1 is not mentioned in this Part 4-4, that subclause
applies as far as reasonable. Where this standard states "addition", "modification" or
"replacement", the relevant text in Part 1 is to be adapted accordingly.
The following print types are used:
– requirements: in roman type;
– test specifications: in italic type;
– notes: in small roman type.
The terms defined in Clause 3 are printed in bold typeface.
Subclauses, notes, tables and figures which are additional to those in Part 1 as well as
Annexes of Part 1, except as described for Annex K and Annex L below, are numbered
starting from 101.
Subclauses, notes, tables and figures in Annex K and Annex L which are additional to those in
the main body of this Part 4-4 are numbered starting from 301.
A list of all parts of the IEC 62841 series, under the general title: Electric motor-operated
hand-held tools, transportable tools and lawn and garden machinery – Safety, can be found
on the IEC website.
The committee has decided that the contents of this document will remain unchanged until the
stability date indicated on the IEC website under "http://webstore.iec.ch" in the data related to
the specific document. At this date, the document will be
• reconfirmed,
• withdrawn,
• replaced by a revised edition, or
• amended.
NOTE The attention of National Committees is drawn to the fact that equipment manufacturers and testing
organizations may need a transitional period following publication of a new, amended or revised IEC publication in
which to make products in accordance with the new requirements and to equip themselves for conducting new or
revised tests.
It is the recommendation of the committee that the content of this publication be adopted for implementation
nationally not earlier than 36 months from the date of publication.

INTRODUCTION
The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) draws attention to the fact that it is
claimed that compliance with this document may involve the use of patents concerning
prevention of inadvertent starting given in Subclause 21.18.101.
IEC takes no position concerning the evidence, validity and scope of this patent right.
The holders of these patent rights have assured the IEC that they are willing to negotiate
licences under reasonable and non-discriminatory terms and conditions with applicants
throughout the world. In this respect, the statements of the holders of these patent rights are
registered with IEC. Information may be obtained from:
Andreas Stihl AG & Co. KG
Stuttgarter Strasse 80
71332 Waiblingen, Germany
Husqvarna AB
SE-561 82 Huskvarna
Sweden
Robert Bosch GmbH
Postfach 30 02 20
D-70442 Stuttgart, Germany
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the
subject of patent rights other than those identified above. IEC shall not be held responsible
for identifying any or all such patent rights.
ISO (www.iso.org/patents) and IEC (http://patents.iec.ch) maintain on-line data bases of
patents relevant to their standards. Users are encouraged to consult the data bases for the
most up to date information concerning patents.

– 8 – IEC 62841-4-4:2020 © IEC 2020
ELECTRIC MOTOR-OPERATED HAND-HELD TOOLS, TRANSPORTABLE
TOOLS AND LAWN AND GARDEN MACHINERY – SAFETY –

Part 4-4: Particular requirements for lawn trimmers, lawn edge trimmers,
grass trimmers, brush cutters and brush saws

1 Scope
This clause of Part 1 is applicable, except as follows:
Addition:
This document applies to hand-held and walk-behind lawn trimmers and lawn edge
trimmers, used by a standing operator for cutting grass, weeds or similar soft vegetation, and
grass trimmers, brush cutters and brush saws used by a standing operator for cutting
grass, weeds, brush, bushes, saplings and similar vegetation.
This document does not apply to
– hand-held machines having a mass of 18 kg or greater;
– self-propelled lawn trimmers or lawn edge trimmers;
– scissors type lawn trimmers and lawn edge trimmers;
– machines equipped with metallic cutting accessories consisting of more than one piece,
e.g. pivoting chains or flail blades;
– edgers with rigid and/or metallic cutting devices.
NOTE 101 Freely pivoting non-metallic cutting elements are considered not to be rigid cutting devices.
NOTE 102 Edgers with rigid or metal cutting devices will be covered by a future part of IEC 62841-4.
NOTE 103 Annex EE provides an informative summary of characteristics for lawn trimmers, lawn edge
trimmers, grass trimmers, brush cutters and brush saws.
Brush cutters and brush saws covered by this document are designed only to be operated
with the machine to the right of the operator.
2 Normative references
This clause of Part 1 is applicable, except as follows:
Replacement of undated normative reference for ISO 3744:
ISO 3744:2010, Acoustics – Determination of sound power levels and sound energy levels of
noise sources using sound pressure – Engineering methods for an essentially free field over a
reflecting plane
Addition:
IEC 60664-3, Insulation coordination for equipment within low-voltage systems – Part 3: Use
of coating, potting or moulding for protection against pollution
IEC 60664-4, Insulation coordination for equipment within low-voltage systems – Part 4:
Consideration of high-frequency voltage stress

ISO 354:2003, Acoustics – Measurement of sound absorption in a reverberation room
ISO 683-4:2016, Heat-treatable steels, alloy steels and free-cutting steels – Part 4:
Free-cutting steels
ISO 7918:1995, Forestry machinery – Portable brush-cutters and grass-trimmers – Cutting
attachment guard dimensions
ISO 11201:2010, Acoustics – Noise emitted by machinery and equipment – Determination of
emission sound pressure levels at a work station and at other specified positions in an
essentially free field over a reflecting plane with negligible environmental corrections
ISO 22868:2011, Forestry and gardening machinery – Noise test code for portable hand-held
machines with internal combustion engine – Engineering method (Grade 2 accuracy)
3 Terms and definitions
This clause of Part 1 is applicable, except as follows:
Addition:
3.101
barrier
device attached to the machine, designed to maintain a minimum distance between the
operator and the cutting accessory when the machine is being operated
3.102
blade thrust
sudden sideways, forward or backward motion of the machine, which may occur when the
cutting accessory jams or catches on an object such as a sapling or a tree stump
3.103
brush cutter
machine with a rotating cutting accessory intended to cut weeds, scrub, brush, and similar
vegetation
Note 101 to entry: See Figure 101.
3.104
brush saw
machine with a rotating circular metal cutting accessory having peripheral cutting teeth,
designed to cut wood, such as small trees and saplings, by continuously removing material
Note 101 to entry: See Figure 102.
3.105
cutting accessory
rigid cutting device made of metal or plastic, used on brush cutters and brush saws
3.106
cutting element
single non-metallic filament line or freely pivoting non-metallic cutter
3.107
cutting head
support and retention system for the cutting means

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Note 101 to entry: Cutting heads are used on lawn trimmers, lawn edge trimmers and grass trimmers.
3.108
cutting means
assembly of non-metallic filament line(s) or freely pivoting non-metallic cutter(s) that rotates
about an axis perpendicular to the cutting plane, used to provide the cutting action by one or
more cutting elements
Note 101 to entry: Cutting means are used on lawn trimmers, lawn edge trimmers and grass trimmers.
3.109
grass trimmer
machine with a cutting means, intended to cut small weeds, grass or similar soft vegetation,
where the cutting means operates in a plane approximately parallel to the ground
Note 101 to entry: See Figure 103.
3.110
hand-held trimmer
lawn trimmer or lawn edge trimmer which is supported by hand, possibly assisted by
wheel(s), skids or harness, etc. and constructed such that it cannot maintain its operating
position without being held by an operator
3.111
lawn edge trimmer
machine with a cutting means for cutting grass or similar soft vegetation where the cutting
means operates in a plane approximately perpendicular to the ground
Note 101 to entry: See Figure 104.
Note 102 to entry: The maximum kinetic energy for cutting elements on lawn edge trimmers is specified
in 21.101.
3.112
lawn trimmer
machine with a cutting means for cutting grass or similar soft vegetation where the cutting
means operates in a plane approximately parallel to the ground
Note 101 to entry: See Figure 105.
Note 102 to entry: The maximum kinetic energy for cutting elements on lawn trimmers is specified in 21.101.
3.113
maximum speed
highest output speed attainable under all conditions of normal use, including no load
3.114
operator presence sensor
device to detect the presence of an operator's hand
3.115
shaft
element of the machine that distances the cutting accessory or cutting means from the
handles
3.116
walk-behind trimmer
lawn trimmer or lawn edge trimmer which is ground supported, controlled by an operator
walking behind and constructed such that it maintains its operating position without being held
by an operator
Note 101 to entry: See Figure 106.

Key
1 power switch
2 lock-off device
3 barrier
4 suspension point
5 cutting accessory guard
6 cutting accessory
Figure 101 – Example of a brush cutter

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Key
1 power switch
2 lock-off device
3 barrier
4 suspension point
5 cutting accessory guard
6 cutting accessory
Figure 102 – Example of a brush saw

a) Grass trimmer with straight shaft

b) Grass trimmer with curved shaft
Key
1 power switch
2 lock-off device
3 cutting means guard
4 cutting means
Figure 103 – Examples of grass trimmers

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Key
1 power switch
2 lock-off device (if any)
3 cutting means guard
4 cutting means
Figure 104 – Example of a lawn edge trimmer

Key
1 power switch
2 lock-off device (if any)
3 cutting means guard
4 cutting means
Figure 105 – Example of a lawn trimmer

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Key
1 power switch
2 lock-off device (if any)
3 grass catcher (if any)
4 cutting means guard
Figure 106 – Example of a walk-behind trimmer

4 General requirements
This clause of Part 1 is applicable.
5 General conditions for the tests
This clause of Part 1 is applicable, except as follows:
5.4 Addition:
Handle positions that are used for storage or transportation purposes are not included in this
requirement.
5.17 Addition:
For brush cutters and brush saws, the mass of the machine includes the heaviest cutting
accessory in accordance with 8.14.2 a) 101) and 8.14.2 a) 104), but excludes the cutting
accessory cover, harness and hip pad, if any.
For lawn trimmers, lawn edge trimmers and grass trimmers, the mass of the machine
includes the cutting head
– with freely pivoting non-metallic cutters, if any; and
– with a spool for non-metallic filament line, if any;
– without the non-metallic filament line, if any;
and for hand-held trimmers, wheels or skids, if any.
5.101 The tests are carried out on the machine as supplied. However, a machine
constructed as a single machine but supplied in an unassembled state is tested after
assembly in accordance with 8.14.2.
5.102 Unless otherwise specified, for Clause 19 and Clause 21, machines are tested in each
operating configuration as described in 8.14.2.
5.103 For tests that are performed at maximum speed and no load, the manufacturer may
need to provide special hardware and/or software.
6 Radiation, toxicity and similar hazards
This clause of Part 1 is applicable.
7 Classification
This clause of Part 1 is applicable, except as follows:
7.1 Replacement:
Machines shall be of one of the following classes with respect to protection against electric
shock:
class II tool (machine), class III tool (machine)

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Compliance is checked by inspection and by the relevant tests.
7.2 Addition:
Walk-behind trimmers that are a class II tool (machine) shall be classified at least as IPX4.
8 Marking and instructions
This clause of Part 1 is applicable, except as follows:
8.1 Addition:
Grass trimmers, brush cutters and brush saws shall be marked with the maximum speed of
the spindle assigned by the manufacturer.
The cutting head for grass trimmers and the cutting accessories for brush cutters and
brush saws shall be marked with their maximum permitted rotational speed.
8.2.101 Additional safety markings
8.2.101.1 General
Machines shall be marked with cautionary statements or instructions as specified in 8.2.101.2
to 8.2.101.8. A combination of ISO safety signs, such as eye, ear and head protection, is
allowed. In addition, a combination of safety signs as specified in Figure AA.1, Figure AA.2
and Figure AA.3 is allowed.
Compliance is checked by inspection.
8.2.101.2 For all machines, unless otherwise specified:
– "Wear eye protection" or a relevant safety sign of ISO 7010 or one of the safety signs
specified in Figure AA.4. This marking may be omitted for walk-behind trimmers with
360 degree guarding of the cutting means;
– "Wear ear protection" or a relevant safety sign of ISO 7010 or the safety sign specified in
Figure AA.5. This marking may be omitted if the measured A-weighted emission sound
pressure level at the operator position in accordance with Annex I does not exceed
85 dB(A);
– the primary direction of rotation of the spindle, by a legible and durable mark that is visible
when operating the machine. This marking may be on the guard. This marking may be
omitted for walk-behind trimmers, machines with no primary direction (i.e. dual direction)
of rotation of the spindle, or machines with 360 degree guarding of the cutting means.
8.2.101.3 For all hand-held machines with a degree of protection of less than IPX4:
– "Do not expose to rain" or the safety sign specified in Figure AA.6.
8.2.101.4 For lawn trimmers and lawn edge trimmers:
– " WARNING – Keep bystanders away" or one of the safety signs specified in
Figure AA.7.
8.2.101.5 For grass trimmers, brush cutters and brush saws:
– " WARNING – The distance between the machine and bystanders shall be at least
15 m", where "15 m" may be replaced by either "50 ft" or "15 m (50 ft)" or one of the safety
signs specified in Figure AA.8;

– " WARNING – Beware of thrown objects", or the safety sign specified in Figure AA.9.
8.2.101.6 For brush cutters and brush saws:
– "Wear head protection" or a relevant safety sign of ISO 7010 or the safety sign specified in
Figure AA.10;
– "Wear hand protection" or a relevant safety sign of ISO 7010 or the safety sign specified in
Figure AA.11;
– "Wear slip-resistant footwear" or the safety sign specified in Figure AA.12;
– " WARNING – Beware of blade thrust", or one of the safety signs specified in either
Figure AA.13 or Figure AA.14.
8.2.101.7 For grass trimmers that cannot be converted to a brush cutter or brush saw in
accordance with 8.14.2 a) 104):
– "Do not use metal blades", or the safety sign specified in Figure AA.15.
8.2.101.8 For mains supplied machines:
– " WARNING – Remove plug from the mains immediately if the cable is damaged or cut"
or the safety sign specified in Figure AA.16.
8.3.101 For grass trimmers, brush cutters and brush saws, the cutting head or cutting
accessory shall be marked with the following information:
– intended direction of rotation, if any;
– name or trade mark of the manufacturer.
8.3.102 For grass trimmers, brush cutters and brush saws, where the minimum handle
distance is not prevented by design, the machine shall be marked with an indication on the
machine as to the placement of the handle to meet the minimum handle distance requirement
of 19.102.1.2.
8.4 Replacement of the first paragraph:
Markings specified in 8.1 to 8.3 shall not be on a detachable part of the machine, except for
– the marking of the primary direction of rotation of the spindle required in 8.2; and
– the markings required in 8.2, 8.2.101 and 8.3.101
which may be on the guard.
8.6 Modification of the following unit:
n . maximum speed
8.12 Replacement of the first paragraph:
Markings required by the standard shall be legible and durable. Signs shall be in contrast
such as colour, texture, or relief, to their background such that the information or instructions
provided by the signs are clearly legible when viewed with normal vision from a distance of
(500 ± 50) mm. Signs need not be in accordance with the colour requirements of ISO 3864-2.
If markings are embossed, stamped, etched, engraved or moulded, contrasting colours are
not required.
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8.14.1 Addition:
The additional safety instructions as specified in 8.14.1.101 to 8.14.1.103 shall be given. This
part may be printed separately from the "General Machine Safety Warnings".
NOTE 101 "General Machine Safety Warnings" are referred to as "General Power Tool Safety Warnings" in
Part 1.
8.14.1.1 Addition for item 2) c):
For machines classified at least IPX4, the warning may be replaced as specified below.
c) Do not operate the machine in rain or wet conditions. Water entering the machine may
increase the risk of electric shock or malfunction that could result in personal injury.
8.14.1.101 Lawn trimmer and lawn edge trimmer safety warnings
a) Do not use the machine in bad weather conditions, especially when there is a risk of
lightning. This decreases the risk of being struck by lightning.
b) Thoroughly inspect the area for wildlife where the machine is to be used. Wildlife may
be injured by the machine during operation.
c) Thoroughly inspect the area where the machine is to be used and remove all stones,
sticks, wires, bones, and other foreign objects. Thrown objects can cause personal
injury.
d) Before using the machine, always visually inspect to see that the cutter and the
cutter assembly are not damaged. Damaged parts increase the risk of injury.
e) Before use, check the supply cord and any extension cord for signs of damage or
aging. Do not use the machine if the cord is damaged or worn. If the cord is
damaged or worn during use, switch off the machine and do not touch the cord
before disconnecting it from the supply. A damaged supply cord or extension cord
may result in electric shock, fire and/or serious injury.
f) Check the grass collector frequently for wear or deterioration. A worn or damaged
grass collector may increase the risk of personal injury.
NOTE 101 The warning in item f) above is omitted if the machine does not have a provision for fitting a grass
collector.
NOTE 102 The term "col
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