Ride on lawn mowers provide a seat for the operator with controls from which to operate the mower. They can have automatic or manual transmission. A ride on mower with an automatic transmission is easier to use due to smoother transition between speeds, whereas a manual transmission requires stopping between speed changes. Ride on mowers are often used for large lawns.
Workplace solutions and adjustments
There are several types of ride on mowers including
- side ejection mowers where clippings are blown out the side which are good for large areas but have decreased manoeuvrability and risk of grass and stone spray
- rear ejection mowers where clippings are blown out the back which are easier to manoeuvre than side ejection models and rarely spray grass or stones
- collection mowers which collect grass clippings in a bag or bin but require the material to be emptied, transported away and composted.
If a person with disability is operating a ride on mower, the most appropriate steering system will need to be considered to suit the individual’s trunk stability, overall strength, co-ordination and visual perception:
- articulated steering mowers have good traction but can be unstable when turning
- front wheel steering mowers have good traction and good braking but can tip backwards when going uphill
- rider steering mowers are stable even when the wheel is turned but have reduced steering ability when going downhill
- rear wheel steering mowers have good traction and braking but risk skidding and collision due to rear section overhanging when turning.
Some modifications to the mower may also be appropriate to assist a person with disability to carry out their gardening role such as:
- applying foam to the machine handles to improve grip and reduce vibration
- using gloves with sticky palms to assist with gripping
- adjusting the steering wheel height to avoid poor posture.
The following links may be useful when considering the use of a Lawn mower for a person with disability:
References
Handy Commentary on Outdoor Appliances 2011, Selecting a mower that is right for you, Handy Commentary on Outdoor Appliances, Online, viewed 22 January 2011, http://www.hcoa.com.au/selecting.htm.
Husqvarna 2009, Ride-On-Mower Buying Tips, Husqvarna Outdoor Products Pty Ltd., Gosford NSW, viewed 22 January 2011, http://www.husqvarna.com.au/node2113.aspx.