6

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.
Instead, try to maintain a straight wrist position. Also, when grasp-
ing, 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
movement.
• 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.
EQUIPMENT
WARNING DANGER
Use only ECHO approved attachments. Serious injury may result from the use of a non-approved attachment
combination. ECHO, INC. will not be responsible for the failure of cutting devices, attachments or accessories which
have not been tested and approved by ECHO. Read and comply with all safety instructions listed in this manual and
safety manual.
• Check unit for loose/missing nuts, bolts, and screws. Tighten and/or
replace as needed.
• Inspect fuel lines, tank, and area around carburetor for fuel leaks. DO
NOT operate unit if leaks are found.
• Inspect shield for damage and ensure that the cut-off knife is securely
in place. Replace if either is damaged or missing.
• Check that the cutting attachment is firmly attached and in safe
operating condition.
• Check that front loop handle and shoulder strap/ or shoulder/
waist harness are adjusted for safe, comfortable operation. See
Assembly Section for proper adjustment.