Electrical Safety Advice for Scarifiers

Scarifiers usage and safety

A scarifier – also called an electric lawn raker – aerates a lawn and keeps the grass in good condition. But they can pose a safety risk if not used and stored properly.

Electric scarifiers get rid of unwanted moss and thatch in a lawn and are available in both cabled and cordless models.

Cabled ones tend to be more lightweight, quiet, and cheaper and are best for small to medium lawns with a power outlet nearby. Cordless models offer more freedom of movement but may have limitations on battery life and can be more expensive.

Key points

All scarifiers must be fitted with a UK 3-pin plug and fuse.

Whichever type you choose, avoid buying second-hand scarifiers.

Keep the area to be worked on clear of debris.

If using an outdoor socket, ensure it is splashproof or waterproof with an IP rating.

Buying a scarifier

Whichever you choose, buy from a reputable retailer rather than a third-party seller online, as it may not have passed all the necessary safety checks.
Avoid buying second-hand scarifiers as you won’t know their history and they may not meet the latest safety standards.
Safety features include a "dead man's handle” which stops the motor when you stop gripping the safety bar or lever on the handlebars, a safety button to prevent accidental start-up, protective guards, and a collection box with a deflector flap.
Some models feature a thermal cut-out to automatically switch off the motor if it overheats or is overloaded, and double insulation to reduce the risk of electric shock.
Register your scarifier so you can be contacted easily if there is a safety recall. It’s also much easier to return a faulty product or order a repair if it’s registered.

Using a scarifier safely

Keep pets and children away from the area you’re working in. And check the area for any debris or trip hazards before you get started.
Check the scarifier for any signs of damage or a chewed cable and don’t use it if you spot anything suspicious.
Wear PPE such as sturdy non-slip shoes that cover your toes, close-fitting long trousers, ear defenders, and gloves.
Position the scarifier on a flat, level surface before adjusting the flails. Be careful working close to gravelled areas. If a stone is caught in the mechanism and spat out, it could cause a serious injury.
Keep the power cable over your shoulder and well out of the way during use.
Unplug your scarifier when not in use and before cleaning it. Store it in a cool, dry indoor place.
If your scarifier cuts out, unplug it before attempting to inspect it for any problems.
If you notice a burning smell or any unusual noises, switch the scarifier off immediately, unplug it and contact the retailer and/or manufacturer.
If you need to use an extension lead or cable reel, make sure it is suitably rated for outdoor use. Cable reels should be fully unwound and fitted with a thermal cut-out. Keep it away from any water or wet areas.
Sockets which supply equipment outdoors should be protected by an RCD (residual current device) to protect you from electric shocks should there be a fault with the product.

ALWAYS

Do plenty of research first before buying.
Buy a known and trusted brand from a reputable retailer.
Register your scarifier with the manufacturer.
Wear sturdy shoes and long trousers when using a scarifier.
Store the scarifier in a cool, dry indoor place. .

AVOID

Buying second-hand or from third-party sellers online.
Using the scarifier if you spot any signs of damage.
Checking the scarifier for problems unless it is unplugged.
Using an outdoor extension lead or cable reel in a wet area.

Stay safe with electrical products

Check plugs and sockets

Don't ignore burn marks, ‘arcing’ (buzzing or crackling) sounds, fuses blowing, circuit-breakers tripping, or if it feels hot to touch.

Unplug and contact the retailer, manufacturer, or a qualified repair technician.

Protect with an RCD

An RCD (residual current device) in your consumer unit (fusebox) protects you from electric shocks if a product is faulty.

If you don’t have RCD protection, use an RCD plug on the socket where the product is plugged in.

Fit smoke and heat alarms

Ensure there is at least one smoke or heat alarm per floor in your property. Fit enough alarms to cover all areas where a fire could start.

Test alarms at least once a month. Replace them every ten years or when the replace by date is reached.

Selected FAQs

If you’re unsure about an appliance or product, you’re not alone. These FAQs bring together expert advice and answers to the questions people ask us most, so you can feel more confident at home.

View all consumer faqs

When does a periodic inspection need to be carried out?

It is recommended that periodic inspection and testing is carried out at the following times:

for tenanted properties, every 5 years or at each change of occupancy, whichever is sooner
at least every 10 years for an owner-occupied home
at least every 5 years for a business

The Landlords and Tenant Act 1985 requires landlords of properties with short leases to keep the electrical wiring in repair and in proper working order. We recommend landlords arrange for periodic inspection and testing to be carried out by a registered electrician at the relevant intervals shown above.

Periodic inspection and testing of the electrics should be carried out more frequently on the places and premises listed here:

3 years for a caravan
1 year for a swimming pool

Who should carry out a periodic inspection?

Periodic inspection and testing should be carried out only by electrically competent persons, such as registered electricians.

My electrician told me that they were registered; however I now believe that they are not, as they have not given me a certificate. What should I do?

First, you need to find out whether the electrician you used is actually registered. To do this, contact the operator of the scheme they have claimed to be part of, and they will tell you whether this is the case. If they are registered, the scheme operator can guide you through their complaints procedure.

If you find out the electrician misled you and is not registered, you should report this to your local Trading Standards Department as they are breaking the law. We would also recommend that you get an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) carried out on your home; this will assess any work that has been undertaken and will act as sufficient documentation to certify that work. This needs to be carried out by a registered electrician and unfortunately will be an added cost for you.

Additional info

Always take care to check the ground before you use a scarifier. Small animals such as frogs and slow worms could be badly hurt by one but also larger animals such as hedgehogs which often sleep in longer grass during the day.

Has your electrical product been recalled?

Electrical products are recalled more regularly than you might think, but the response rate to a recall is often worryingly low. This means there are potentially millions of recalled electrical items still in UK homes.

Check your appliances

Scarifiers