SAFETY RULES
Safe Operation Practices for Walk-Behind Mowers
IMPORTANT: THIS CUTTING MACHINE IS CAPABLE OF AMPUTATING HANDS AND FEET AND THROWING OBJECTS. FAILURE TO OBSERVE THE FOLLOWING SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.
I. GENERAL OPERATION
•Read,understand,andfollowallinstructionsonthemachine and in the manual(s) before starting. Be thoroughly familiar with the controls and the proper use of the machine before starting.
•Do not put hands or feet near or under rotating parts. Keep clear of the discharge opening at all times.
•Only allow responsible individuals, who are familiar with the instructions, to operate the machine.
•Clear the area of objects such as rocks, toys, wire, bones, sticks,etc.,whichcouldbepickedupandthrownbytheblade.
•Besuretheareaisclearofotherpeoplebeforemowing. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.
•Do not operate the mower when barefoot or wearing open sandals. Always wear substantial foot wear.
•Do not pull mower backwards unless absolutely necessary. Always look down and behind before and while moving backwards.
•Donotoperatethemowerwithoutproperguards,plates,grass catcher or other safety protective devices in place.
•See manufacturer’s instructions for proper operation and installation of accessories. Only use accessories approved by the manufacturer.
•Stop the blade(s) when crossing gravel drives, walks, or roads.
•Stoptheengine(motor)wheneveryouleavetheequipment, before cleaning the mower or unclogging the chute.
•Shut the engine (motor) off and wait until the blade comes to complete stop before removing grass catcher.
•Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.
•Do not operate the machine while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
•Neveroperatemachineinwetgrass. Alwaysbesureofyour footing: keep a firm hold on the handle and walk; never run.
•Disengage the
•If the equipment should start to vibrate abnormally, stop the engine (motor) and check immediately for the cause. Vibra- tion is generally a warning of trouble.
•Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side shieldswhenoperatingmower.
II. SLOPE OPERATION
Slopes are a major factor related to slip and fall accidents which can result in severe injury. All slopes require extra caution. If you feel uneasy on a slope, do not mow it.
DO:
•Mowacrossthefaceofslopes:neverupanddown. Exercise extreme caution when changing direction on slopes.
•Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc.
•Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Tall grass can hide ob- stacles.
DONOT:
•Do not trim near
•Do not trim excessively steep slopes.
•Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced footing could cause slipping.
III. CHILDREN
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the presence of children. Children are often attracted to the machine and the mowing activity. Never assume that children will remain where you last saw them.
•Keepchildrenoutofthetrimmingareaandunderthewatchful care of another responsible adult.
•Be alert and turn machine off if children enter the area.
•Before and while walking backwards, look behind and down for small children.
•Never allow children to operate the machine.
•Useextracarewhenapproachingblindcorners,shrubs,trees, or other objects that may obscure vision.
IV. SERVICE
•Useextracareinhandlinggasolineandotherfuels. Theyare flammable and vapors are explosive.
-Use only an approved container.
-Never remove gas cap or add fuel with the engine running. Allow engine to cool before refueling. Do not smoke.
-Never refuel the machine indoors.
-Never store the machine or fuel container inside where there is an open flame, such as a water heater.
•Never run a machine inside a closed area.
•Never make adjustments or repairs with the engine (motor) running. Disconnect the spark plug wire, and keep the wire away from the plug to prevent accidental starting.
•Keepnutsandbolts,especiallybladeattachementbolts,tight and keep equipment in good condition.
•Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper operationregularly.
•
•Stopandinspecttheequipmentifyoustrikeanobject. Repair, if necessary, before restarting.
•Never attempt to make wheel height adjustments while the engine(motor)isrunning.
•Grasscatchercomponentsaresubjecttowear,damage,and deterioration, which could expose moving parts or allow objects to be thrown. Frequently check components and replacewithmanufacturer’srecommendedparts,whennec- essary.
•Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves, and use extra caution when servicing them.
•Donotchangetheenginegovernorsettingoroverspeedthe engine.
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