Bush Hog Home Series manual Important Safety Precautions, Accident Patterns to Avoid

IMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

This symbol is used to call attention to safe- ty precautions that should be followed by the operator to avoid accidents. When you see this symbol, carefully read the message that follows and heed its advice. Failure to comply with safety precautions could result in serious bodily injury.

In addition to the design and configuration of equipment, hazard control and accident prevention are depen- dent upon the awareness, concern, prudence and proper training of personnel in the operation, transport, maintenance and storage of equipment. Lack of attention to safety can result in accident, personal injury, reduction of efficiency and worst of all—loss of life. Watch for safety hazards and correct deficiencies prompt- ly. Use the following safety precautions as a general guide to safe operations when using this machine. Additional safety precautions are used throughout this manual for specific operating and maintenance proce- dures. Read this manual and review the safety precautions often until you know the limitations.

ACCIDENT PATTERNS TO AVOID

1.CONTACT WITH THE ROTATING BLADE - This accident usually happens when the operator is clear- ing the discharge chute of grass, (especially when the grass is wet), or when the operator adjusts the machine without turning it off and waiting for the blades to completely stop.

2.PROPELLED OBJECTS - Sticks, rocks, wires, and other objects can be propelled out through the dis- charge chute or from under the mower housing. Bystanders are particularly vulnerable.

3.GRASS DISCHARGE CHUTE - The mower shall not be operated without the grass discharge chute in its lowered position.

4.OVERTURNING - This happens when riding mowers are used on steep slopes, embankments or hills. The operator in these cases can come in contact with blades or sustain injuries during a fall.

5.MOWER RUNNING OVER THE VICTIM - This usually happens when a riding mower is driven in reverse. The accident victims are most often young children whom, unseen by the operator of the mower, were in the area being mowed.

WE SHARE YOUR DESIRE TO PROTECT YOURSELF, YOUR FAMILY, YOUR FRIENDS AND YOUR NEIGHBORS FROM ACCIDENTAL INJURY. OBSERVING AND ENFORCING THE FOLLOWING GUIDE LINES WILL HELP TO INSURE THE SAFETY OF EVERYONE.

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

1.PEOPLE WHO OPERATE, SERVICE, OR ARE OTHERWISE ASSOCIATED with the Zero Turning Riding Mower should be trained in its proper use and warned of its dangers. Before operating, adjusting, or servicing the Zero Turning Riding Mower they should read and understand this entire manual and the engine manual.

2.AVOID CONTACT WITH MOVING PARTS. Keep hands and feet from under mowing deck and away from blades at all times. Turn engine (motor) off if you must unclog the chute.

3.AVOID HILLS AND SLOPES. Use EXTREME caution when mowing and/or turning on slopes as loss of traction and/or tip-over could occur. Drive slower on slopes. DO NOT mow slopes greater than 15 degrees. Watch for ditch- es, holes, rocks, dips and rises, which change the operating angle. Keep away from drop-offs and steep banks. Avoid sudden starts when mowing uphill - mower may tip backwards. Loss of traction may occur going downhill - weight transfer to the front wheels may cause drive wheels to slip and cause loss of braking. DO NOT mow slopes when grass is wet - slippery conditions affect steering and reduce traction and braking. The operator is responsible for safe operation on slopes.

4.DISENGAGE POWER TO MOWER BEFORE BACKING UP. Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary and then only after turning around and observing the entire area behind the mower. Go slowly. Most “running over victim” accidents occur in reverse.

5.BEGINNING OPERATORS SHOULD LEARN HOW TO STEER the Zero Turning Riding Mower before attempting to mow. Start with slow engine speed and drive without the blades engaged in open area until comfortable with the machine.

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