Power PrunerTM

5

Operator's Manual

Repetitive Stress Injuries

It is believed that overusing the muscles and tendons of the fingers, hands, arms and shoulders may cause soreness, swelling, numbness, weakness and extreme pain in those areas. Certain repetitive hand activities may put you at a high risk for developing a Repetitive Stress Injury (RSI). An extreme RSI condition is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS), which could occur when your wrist swells and squeezes a vital nerve that runs through the area. Some believe that prolonged exposure to vibration may contribute to CTS. CTS can cause severe pain for months or even years.

To reduce the risk of RSI/CTS, do the following:

•Avoid using your wrist in a bent, extended or twisted position. In- stead try to maintain a straight wrist position. Also, when grasping, use your whole hand, not just the thumb and index finger.

•Take periodic breaks to minimize repetition and rest your hands.

•Reduce the speed and force with which you do the repetitive move- ment.

•Do exercises to strengthen the hand and arm muscles.

•Immediately stop using all power equipment and consult a doctor if you feel tingling, numbness or pain in the fingers, hands, wrists or arms. The sooner RSI/CTS is diagnosed, the more likely permanent nerve and muscle damage can be prevented.

danger

All over head electrical conductors and communications wires can have electricity flow with high voltages. This unit is not insulated against electrical current. Never touch wires directly or indirectly when pruning, otherwise serious injury or death may result.

WARNING

Do not operate this product indoors or in inadequately ventilated areas. Engine exhaust contains poisonous emissions and can cause serious injury or death.

Read the Manuals

•Provide all operators of this equipment with the Operator's Manual, and instructions for safe operation.

Clear the Work Area

•Spectators and fellow workers must be warned, and children and animals prevented from coming nearer than 15 m (50 ft.) while the unit is in use.

Use Proper Clothing & Equipment

•Always wear head protection with full face shield to help protect against falling branches and debris.

Keep A Firm Grip

•Grip Power PrunerTM with both hands with thumbs and fingers encir- cling the handle, and shaft tube.