■Inspect the unit before each use for loose fasteners, fuel leaks, etc. Replace any damaged parts before use.
■The string head or blade will rotate during carburetor adjustments.
■It has been reported that vibrations from hand-held tools may contribute to a condition called Raynaud’s Syn- drome in certain individuals. Symptoms may include tingling, numbness and blanching of the fingers, usually apparent upon exposure to cold. Hereditary factors, exposure to cold and dampness, diet, smoking and work practices are all thought to contribute to the develop- ment of these symptoms. It is presently unknown what, if any, vibrations or extent of exposure may contribute to the condition. There are measures that can be taken by the operator to possibly reduce the effects of vibration:
a)Keep your body warm in cold weather. When operat- ing the unit wear gloves to keep the hands and wrists warm. It is reported that cold weather is a major factor contributing to Raynaud’s Syndrome.
b)After each period of operation, exercise to increase blood circulation.
c)Take frequent work breaks. Limit the amount of exposure per day.
d)Keep the tool well maintained, fasteners tightened and worn parts replaced.
If you experience any of the symptoms of this condition, immediately discontinue use and see your physician about these symptoms.
■Mix and store fuel in a container approved for gasoline.
■Mix fuel outdoors where there are no sparks or flames. Wipe up any fuel spillage. Move 9 m (30 ft. ) away from refueling site before starting engine.
■Stop the engine and allow to cool before refueling or storing the unit.
■Allow the engine to cool; empty the fuel tank and secure the unit from moving before transporting in a vehicle.
SPECIFIC SAFETY RULES FOR TRIMMER USE
■Replace string head if cracked, chipped, or damaged in any way. Be sure the string head or blade is properly installed and securely fastened. Failure to do so can cause serious injury.
■Make sure all guards, straps, deflectors and handles are properly and securely attached.
■Use only the manufacturer's replacement string in the cutting head. Do not use any other cutting attachment.
■Never operate unit without the grass deflector in place and in good condition.
■Maintain a firm grip on both handles while trimming. Keep string head below waist level. Never cut with the string head located over 76 cm (30 in.) or more above the ground.
SPECIFIC SAFETY RULES FOR BRUSHCUTTER AND BLADE USE
■After engine stops, keep rotating blade in heavy grass or pulpy weeks until it stops.
■Do not operate the brushcutter unless the blade guard is firmly secured in place and in good condition.
■Use heavy gloves while installing or removing blades.
■Always stop the engine and remove the spark plug wire before attempting to remove any obstruction caught or jammed in the blade or before removing and installing the blade.
■Do not attempt to touch or stop the blade when it is rotating.
■A coasting blade can cause injury while it continues to spin after the engine is stopped or throttle trigger re- leased. Maintain proper control until the blade has completely stopped rotating.
■Replace any blade that has been damaged. Always make sure blade is installed correctly and securely fastened before each use. Failure to do so can cause serious injury.
■Use only the manufacturer's replacement TRI-ARC blade intended for use on this brushcutter. Do not use any other blade.
■The TRI-ARC blade is suited for cutting pulpy weeds and vines only. Do not use for any other purpose. Never use the TRI-ARC blade to cut woody brush.
■Exercise extreme caution when using the blade with this unit. Blade thrust is the reaction that may occur when the spinning blade contacts anything it cannot cut. This contact may cause the blade to stop for an instant, and suddenly “thrust” the unit away from the object that was hit. This reaction can be violent enough to cause the operator to lose control of the unit. Blade thrust can occur without warning if the blade snags, stalls, or binds. This is more likely to occur in areas where it is difficult to see the material being cut. For cutting ease and safety, approach the weeds being cut from the right to the left. In the event an unexpected object or woody stock is encountered, this could minimize the blade thrust reaction.
■Never cut any material over 13 mm (1/2 in.) diameter.
■Always wear the shoulder strap when using the brushcutter and adjust to a comfortable operating position. Maintain a firm grip on both handles while cutting with a blade. Keep the blade away from body and below waist. Never use the brushcutter with the blade located 76 cm (30 in.) or more above the ground level.
■Cover the blade with the blade protector before storing the unit, or during transportation. Always remove the blade protector before using the unit. If not removed, the blade protector could become a thrown object as the blade begins to turn.
