Operational Safety

zThe use of this equipment is subject to certain hazards that cannot be pro- tected against by the mechanical means or product design. All operators of this equipment must read and understand this entire manual, paying particu- lar attention to safety and operating instructions, prior to using. If there is something in this manual you do not understand, ask your supervisor, 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 mower. 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 blades, and operators be- ing knocked off the tractor by low hanging limbs and then being run over by the mower. 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 famil- iar with a rotary mower.

zThe rotary mower is designed for use only on tractors with 540-RPMpower take off.

zInstall and secure all guards and shields before starting or operating. The flaps, driveline guards and tractor shields should be used and maintained in good working condition. They should be inspected carefully, 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 en- tangled in the operating parts of the mower. These items could then swing outside the housing at greater velocities than the blades. Such a situation is extremely hazardous. Inspect the cutting area for such objects before mow- ing. Remove any like objects from the site.