The Lawnmowers (Harmonization of Noise Emission Standards) Regulations 1992

6.2    Operation of the sound source during measurement

Before each sound measurement is taken, the lawnmower shall be warmed up in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

The sound power level of lawnmowers shall, in principle, be measured when the lawnmower is stationary without its operator being present and the cutting device and the motor are operating at maximum speed.

If the cutting device cannot be separated from the driving wheels of the lawnmower, the mower shall be tested either with the mower on supports or while moving and driven by an operator under the following conditions:

• direct drive lawnmower:

  • in this case, it shall be moving at a speed such that the cutting device is operating at the maximum speed laid down by the manufacturer,

• variable-drive lawnmower:

  • in this case, the highest gear shall be selected. The lawnmower shall be moving at a speed such that the cutting device is operating at the maximum speed laid down by the manufacturer.

    (a)

    Lawnmowers with combustion engines:

The engine oil used for operating the mower during measurement shall be as specified by the manufacturer. The fuel tank shall not be more than half full.

(b) Lawnmowers with electric motors:

If the lawnmower is powered by battery, the battery shall be fully charged. If the lawnmower is powered by a generator or from the mains, the frequency of the supply current, specified for the motor by the manufacturer, shall be stable during the test at ±1 Hz if the lawnmower is equipped with an induction motor, and the supply voltage at ±1.0% of the rated voltage if the lawnmower is equipped with a commutator motor. The voltage is measured at the plug of a non-detachable cable or cord, or at the inlet of the lawnmower if a detachable cable is provided. The waveform of the current supplied from the generator shall be similar to that obtained from the mains.

(c) Lawnmowers which hover or are hand held:

These mowers shall be restrained or supported to achieve their normal working position. The supports shall be made in such a way that they do not influence the measurement results.