Both varieties of Phoenix palm (Phoenix roebellenii and Phoenix canariensis) commonly known as the Date Palm, pose a significant Health and Safety risk to those working in close proximity. The hardened thorns found at the frond base are extremely sharp and the tip will often snap off once they have penetrated the skin. The thorn tips are very small and can be very hard to detect with MRI, X-ray or ultra-sound. They have the ability to penetrate into joints and tendons.
Sepcial care must always be taken when working near these. Eye protection, thick clothing and leather gloves are the minimum required. Care should be taken handling the fronds when loading and unloading green waste.