Equipment Safety Guidelines

zSafety of the operator and by standards is one of the main concerns in designing and developing a mower. However, every year accidents occur which could have been avoided by a few seconds of thought and a more careful approach to handling equip- ment. You, the operator, can avoid many accidents by observing the following precau- tions and insist those working with you, or for you, follow them.

zIn order to provide a better view, certain photographs or illustrations in this manual may show an assembly with a safety shield removed. However, equipment should never be operated in this condition. Keep all shields in place. If shield removal becomes neces- sary for repairs, replace the shield prior to use.

zReplace any safety sign that is not readable or is missing. Location of such safety signs is indicated in this manual.

zNever use alcoholic beverages or drugs that can hinder alertness or coordination while operating this equipment. Consult your doctor about operating this machine while taking prescription medications.

zUnder no circumstances should children under the age of 18 be allowed to work with this equipment. Do not allow persons to operate or assemble this unit until they have read this manual and have developed a thorough understanding of the safety precautions and of how it works. Review the safety instructions with all users annually.

zThis equipment is dangerous to children and persons unfamiliar with its operation. The operator should be a responsible, properly trained and physically able person familiar with farm machinery and trained in this equipment’s operations. If the elderly are assisting with farm work, their physical limitations need to be recognized and accom- modated.

zUse a tractor equipped with a Roll Over Protective System and seat belts. (ROPS)

zNever exceed the limits of a piece of machinery. If its ability to do a job, or to do so safely, is in question- DON’T TRY IT.

zDo not modify the equipment in any way. Unauthorized modification could result in serious injury or death and may impair the function and life of the equipment.

zIn addition to the design and the confirmation of this implement, including safety signs and safety equipment, hazard control and accident prevention are dependent upon the awareness, concern, prudence, and proper training of personnel involved in the opera- tion, transport, maintenance, and storage of the machine. Refer also to safety mes- sages and operation instruction in each of the appropriate sections of the tractor and mower manuals. Pay close attention to the safety signs affixed to the tractor and the rotary mower.