OPERATIONAL SAFETY
zThe use of this equipment is subject to certain hazards that cannot be protected against by the mechanical means or product design. All opera- tors of this equipment must read and understand this entire manual, pay- ing particular attention to safety and operating instructions, prior to using. If there is something in this manual you do not understand, ask your su- pervisor, or your dealer, to explain it to you.
zMost accidents occur because of neglect or carelessness. Keep all help- ers and bystanders at least several hundred feet from an operating rotary tiller. Only properly trained people should operate this machine.
zWhen machine is operated in populated areas where thrown objects could injure persons or property, operation must be stopped when anyone comes within several hundred feet.
zThe majority of the accidents involve entanglement on the driveline, injury of bystanders by the objects thrown by the rotating tines, and operators being knocked off the tractor by low hanging limbs and then being run over by the tiller. Accidents are most likely to occur with machines that are loaned or rented to someone who has not read the owner’s manual and is not familiar with a rotary tiller.
zThe rotary tiller is designed for use only on tractors with the power take- off (PTO) turning at
zInstall and secure all guards and shields before starting or operating. The tiller tines, driveline guards and tractor, shields should be used and maintained in good working condition. They should be inspected care- fully, at least daily, for missing or broken chain links, shields, or guards. (Worn items must be replaced at once to reduce possibility of injury.)
zDisengage power takeoff (PTO) and place transmission in neutral before attempting to start engine.
zMany varied objects, such as wire, cable, rope, or chains, can become entangled in the operating parts of the tiller. These items could then swing outside the housing at greater velocities than the tines. Such a situation is extremely hazardous. Inspect the cutting area for such objects before tilling. Remove any like objects from the site.
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