EN IEC 62841-4-4:2026

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.

Elektrische motorbetriebene handgeführte Werkzeuge, transportable Werkzeuge und Rasen- und Gartenmaschinen - Sicherheit - Teil 4-4: Besondere Anforderungen für Rasenkantentrimmer, Grastrimmer, Freischneider und Freischneider mit Sägeblatt

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.

Elektromotorna ročna orodja, prenosna orodja ter stroji za trato in vrt - Varnost - 4-4. del: Posebne zahteve za rezalnike trat, obrezovalnike tratnih robov, rezalnike trave, obrezovalnike grmičja in rezalnike grmičja (IEC 62841-4-4:2020)

IEC 62841-4-4:2020 Ta dokument se uporablja za ročne in potisne obrezovalnike trate in obrezovalnike robov trate, ki jih stoječi operater uporablja za rezanje trave, plevela ali podobne mehke vegetacije, ter obrezovalnike trave, rezalnike grmovja in žage za grmovje, ki jih stoječi operater uporablja za rezanje trave, plevela, grmovja, grmovnic, mladik in podobne vegetacije.
Ta dokument se ne uporablja za
- ročne stroje z maso 18 kg ali več;
- samohodne obrezovalnike trate ali obrezovalnike robov trate;
- škarjaste obrezovalnike trate in obrezovalnike robov trate;
- stroje, opremljene z kovinskimi rezalnimi dodatki, ki so sestavljeni iz več kot enega kosa, npr. vrtljive verige ali nihajne rezila;
- obrezovalnike z rigidnimi in/ali kovinskimi rezalnimi napravami.
Priloga EE zagotavlja informativni povzetek značilnosti za obrezovalnike trate, obrezovalnike robov trate, obrezovalnike trave, rezalnike grmovja in žage za grmovje.
Rezalniki grmovja in žage za grmovje, ki jih pokriva ta dokument, so zasnovani tako, da jih je mogoče upravljati le s strojem na desni strani operaterja.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 19-Mar-2026
• Withdrawal Date: 22-Aug-2021
• ICS: 25.140.20 - Electric tools
• Technical Committee: CLC/TC 116 - Safety of hand-held motor-operated electric tools
• Drafting Committee: CLC/TC 116/WG 05 - Gardening appliances
• Current Stage: 6060 - Document made available - Publishing
• Start Date: 20-Mar-2026
• Completion Date: 20-Mar-2026
• Directive: Harmonized Standard2006/42/EC - Directive 2006/42/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 17 May 2006 on machinery, and amending Directive 95/16/EC (recast)
• Mandate: M/396 - Mandate to CEN and Cenelec for standardisation in the field of machinery
• Ref Project: SIST EN IEC 62841-4-4:2026 - 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)

Relations

• Replaces: EN 50636-2-91:2014 - Household and similar electrical appliances - Safety - Part 2-91: Particular requirements for walk-behind and hand-held lawn trimmers and lawn edge trimmers
• Effective Date: 23-Jan-2023
• Refers: EN 60664-4:2006 - Insulation coordination for equipment within low-voltage systems - Part 4: Consideration of high-frequency voltage stress
• Effective Date: 20-Feb-2026
• Refers: EN ISO 683-4:2018 - Heat-treatable steels, alloy steels and free-cutting steels - Part 4: Free-cutting steels (ISO 683-4:2016)
• Effective Date: 20-Feb-2026
• Refers: EN 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 (ISO 3744:2010)
• Effective Date: 20-Feb-2026
• Refers: EN 60664-3:2017 - Insulation coordination for equipment within low-voltage systems - Part 3: Use of coating, potting or moulding for protection against pollution
• Effective Date: 20-Feb-2026
• Refers: EN ISO 354:2003 - Acoustics - Measurement of sound absorption in a reverberation room (ISO 354:2003)
• Effective Date: 20-Feb-2026
• Refers: ISO 7918:1995 - Forestry machinery — Portable brush-cutters and grass-trimmers — Cutting attachment guard dimensions
• Effective Date: 20-Feb-2026
• Refers: EN 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 11201:2010)
• Effective Date: 20-Feb-2026
• Refers: EN ISO 22868:2011 - Forestry and gardening machinery - Noise test code for portable hand-held machines with internal combustion engine - Engineering method (Grade 2 accuracy) (ISO 22868:2011)
• Effective Date: 20-Feb-2026
• Referred By: EN 12976-1:2017 - Thermal solar systems and components - Factory made systems - Part 1: General requirements
• Effective Date: 24-Mar-2026
• Amended By: EN IEC 62841-4-4:2026/A1:2026 - 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
• Effective Date: 04-Jul-2023
• Amended By: EN IEC 62841-4-4:2026/A11:2026 - 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
• Effective Date: 08-Feb-2022

Overview

EN IEC 62841-4-4:2026 is a European standard developed under the IEC and CLC organizations, focusing on the safety requirements for electric motor-operated hand-held tools, transportable tools, and lawn and garden machinery. This part, "Part 4-4: Particular requirements for lawn trimmers, lawn edge trimmers, grass trimmers, brush cutters and brush saws," covers the specific safety aspects essential for the design, manufacture, and operation of these powered gardening tools. The standard applies to equipment used by a standing operator for cutting grass, weeds, brush, saplings, and similar vegetation. It supersedes EN 50636-2-91:2014, aligning with the latest industry and regulatory expectations for safety in electric garden equipment.

Key Topics

• Scope of Application

  • Covers hand-held and walk-behind lawn trimmers and lawn edge trimmers, intended for cutting grass, weeds, and similar soft vegetation.
  • Includes grass trimmers, brush cutters, and brush saws, used by standing operators for cutting tougher growth like brush, bushes, and saplings.

• Exclusions

  • Not applicable to machines over 18 kg, self-propelled or scissors-type trimmers, machines with multi-piece metallic cutting accessories (e.g., chains or flails), and edgers with rigid or metallic cutting devices.

• Safety Requirements

  • Addresses mechanical and electrical safety, marking and user instructions, guarding, noise and vibration reduction, and operator presence detection.
  • Defines requirements for protection against moisture, mechanical strength, overload protection, insulation, and resistance to heat and fire.
  • Specifies safety markings and symbols, such as signs for wearing eye and ear protection, and warnings for bystander safety.

• Performance Standards

  • Includes test methods for mechanical durability, the effectiveness of guards, and impact resistance.
  • Establishes guidelines for maximum permissible speeds and configurations for safe operation.

Applications

EN IEC 62841-4-4:2026 is vital for:

• Manufacturers and Product Designers

  • Ensures compliance with European safety requirements during design, fabrication, and assembly of electric lawn trimmers, grass trimmers, brush cutters, and brush saws.
  • Supports CE marking and market access in the EU/EFTA countries.

• Certification and Conformity Assessment Bodies

  • Provides a standardized framework for type testing, safety certification, and conformity declaration of powered garden equipment.

• Retailers and Distributors

  • Guarantees that products in the supply chain meet stringent safety norms, reducing liability and ensuring user trust.

• Professional and Residential Users

  • Enhances operator and bystander safety by promoting clear user instructions, visible warnings, and robust physical protections.

• Regulators and Standardization Committees

  • Supports market surveillance and the harmonization of regulations for electrical garden equipment across member states.

Related Standards

• IEC 62841-1: General requirements for electric motor-operated hand-held tools, transportable tools and lawn and garden machinery.
• ISO 3744: Acoustics - Determination of sound power levels and sound energy levels of noise sources using sound pressure.
• ISO 7918: Forestry machinery - Portable brush-cutters and grass-trimmers - Cutting attachment guard dimensions.
• EN 50636-2-91: Earlier standard for similar equipment, now superseded.
• IEC 60664 series: Insulation coordination for low-voltage equipment.

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Keywords: EN IEC 62841-4-4:2026, electric lawn trimmers, grass trimmers, lawn edge trimmers, brush cutters, brush saws, hand-held garden tools, lawn and garden machinery, garden equipment safety standard, CENELEC, IEC safety standards, operator protection, conformity assessment.

Practical Value: By adhering to EN IEC 62841-4-4:2026, manufacturers and professionals ensure high safety standards, regulatory compliance, and risk mitigation for the production and use of lawn and garden power tools throughout Europe.

Standards Content (Sample)

SLOVENSKI STANDARD
01-maj-2026
Nadomešča:
SIST EN 50636-2-91:2015
Elektromotorna ročna orodja, prenosna orodja ter stroji za trato in vrt - Varnost - 4-
4. del: Posebne zahteve za rezalnike trat, obrezovalnike tratnih robov, rezalnike
trave, obrezovalnike grmičja in rezalnike grmičja (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 (IEC 62841-4-4:2020)
Elektrische motorbetriebene handgeführte Werkzeuge, transportable Werkzeuge und
Rasen- und Gartenmaschinen – Sicherheit – Teil 4-4: Besondere Anforderungen für
Rasentrimmer, Rasenkantenschneider, Grastrimmer, Freischneider und Freischneider
mit Sägeblatt (IEC 62841-4-4:2020)
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)
Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z: EN IEC 62841-4-4:2026
ICS:
25.140.20 Električna orodja Electric tools
65.060.70 Vrtnarska oprema Horticultural equipment
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.

EUROPEAN STANDARD EN IEC 62841-4-4

NORME EUROPÉENNE
EUROPÄISCHE NORM March 2026
ICS 25.140.20 Supersedes EN 50636-2-91:2014
English Version
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)
Outils électroportatifs à moteur, outils portables et machines Elektrische motorbetriebene handgeführte Werkzeuge,
pour jardins et pelouses - Sécurité - Partie 4-4: Exigences transportable Werkzeuge und Rasen- und
particulières pour les taille-gazon, les coupe-bordures, les Gartenmaschinen - Sicherheit - Teil 4-4: Besondere
coupe-herbes, les débroussailleuses et les Anforderungen für Rasenkantentrimmer, Grastrimmer,
débroussailleuses à lame de scie Freischneider und Freischneider mit Sägeblatt
(IEC 62841-4-4:2020) (IEC 62841-4-4:2020)
This European Standard was approved by CENELEC on 2026-03-09. CENELEC members are bound to comply with the CEN/CENELEC
Internal Regulations which stipulate the conditions for giving this European Standard the status of a national standard without any alteration.
Up-to-date lists and bibliographical references concerning such national standards may be obtained on application to the CEN-CENELEC
Management Centre or to any CENELEC member.
This European Standard exists in three official versions (English, French, German). A version in any other language made by translation
under the responsibility of a CENELEC member into its own language and notified to the CEN-CENELEC Management Centre has the
same status as the official versions.
CENELEC members are the national electrotechnical committees of Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, the Czech Republic,
Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the
Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Republic of North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland,
Türkiye and the United Kingdom.

European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardization
Comité Européen de Normalisation Electrotechnique
Europäisches Komitee für Elektrotechnische Normung
CEN-CENELEC Management Centre: Rue de la Science 23, B-1040 Brussels
© 2026 CENELEC All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved worldwide for CENELEC Members.
Ref. No. EN IEC 62841-4-4:2026 E

European foreword
The text of document 116/468/FDIS, future edition 1 of IEC 62841-4-4, prepared by TC 116 "Safety of
motor-operated electric tools" was submitted to the IEC-CENELEC parallel vote and approved by
CENELEC as EN IEC 62841-4-4:2026.
The following dates are fixed:
• latest date by which the document has to be implemented at national (dop) 2027-03-31
level by publication of an identical national standard or by endorsement
• latest date by which the national standards conflicting with the (dow) 2030-03-31
document have to be withdrawn
This document supersedes EN 50636-2-91:2014 and all of its amendments and corrigenda (if any).
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of
patent rights. CENELEC shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
This document is read in conjunction with EN IEC 62841-4-4:2026/A1:2026 and EN IEC 62841-4-
4:2026/A11:2026.
This document has been prepared under a standardization request addressed to CENELEC by the
European Commission. The Standing Committee of the EFTA States subsequently approves these
requests for its Member States.
For the relationship with EU Legislation, see informative Annex ZZ, which is an integral part of
Any feedback and questions on this document should be directed to the users’ national committee. A
complete listing of these bodies can be found on the CENELEC website.
Endorsement notice
The text of the International Standard IEC 62841-4-4:2020 was approved by CENELEC as a
European Standard without any modification.

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

IEC 62841-4-4:2020 © IEC 2020 – 3 –
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

IEC 62841-4-4:2020 © IEC 2020 – 5 –
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
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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.

IEC 62841-4-4:2020 © IEC 2020 – 7 –
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

IEC 62841-4-4:2020 © IEC 2020 – 9 –
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.

IEC 62841-4-4:2020 © IEC 2020 – 11 –

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

– 12 – IEC 62841-4-4:2020 © IEC 2020

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

IEC 62841-4-4:2020 © IEC 2020 – 13 –

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

– 14 – IEC 62841-4-4:2020 © IEC 2020

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

IEC 62841-4-4:2020 © IEC 2020 – 15 –

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

– 16 – IEC 62841-4-4:2020 © IEC 2020

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

IEC 62841-4-4:2020 © IEC 2020 – 17 –
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;

IEC 62841-4-4:2020 © IEC 2020 – 19 –
– " 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 mach
...