Pedestrian Mower Operations (LANTRA Awards)

Safe, competent mower operation starts with understanding the machine, the ground, and the risk.

This one-day LANTRA Awards course provides practical, assessed training for anyone required to operate pedestrian mowers as part of their role.

Course overview

Pedestrian mowers are widely used across horticulture, landscaping, and grounds maintenance. When operated correctly, they are effective and efficient tools. When operated without appropriate training, they present clear and avoidable risks to operators, bystanders, and property.

This course develops safe, competent pedestrian mower operation through a structured combination of safety awareness, risk assessment, and hands-on machine use. It focuses on understanding machine controls and cutting mechanisms, carrying out checks and adjustments, and applying safe methods of work across varied ground conditions, including slopes and uneven terrain.

Training reflects current industry practice and includes specific consideration of battery-powered machines alongside fuel-powered equipment. Successful completion leads to a LANTRA Certificate of Competence, providing formal verification of operator skills.

Key benefits

• Operate pedestrian mowers safely in real working environments

• Reduce the risk of injury associated with loss of control, cutting mechanisms, and ground conditions

• Apply systematic checks and adjustments to maintain safe machine operation

• Work confidently on slopes and uneven terrain within defined operational limits

• Demonstrate verified competence through recognised LANTRA certification

Learning outcomes

By the end of the course, you will be able to:

• Identify hazards and risks associated with pedestrian mower operations

• Select and use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)

• Identify mower components, controls, and cutting mechanisms

• Carry out daily, pre-start, and after-use checks in line with the operator’s manual

• Adjust cutting mechanisms to achieve the required standard safely

• Operate pedestrian mowers safely and competently, including on slopes

• Identify, report, and respond appropriately to faults

• Load, transport, and secure pedestrian mowers where required

• Apply safe working practices for both fuel-powered and battery-powered machines

Who should attend

This course is suitable for:

• Grounds maintenance and landscaping operatives

• Horticultural and estate staff

• Anyone required to operate pedestrian mowers as part of their work

• Both novice operators and experienced users who require formal certification

Course duration may vary depending on prior experience, selected cutting mechanisms, and instructor-to-learner ratios.