EN 4

SAFETY

1.2SAFETY REGULATIONS(read carefully before using the machine)

A) TRAINING

1)Read the instructions carefully. Be familiar with the controls and the proper use of the equipment.

2)Never allow children or people unfamiliar with these instructions to use the machine. Local regulations can restrict the age of the operator.

3)Never mow while people, especially child- ren, or pets are nearby.

4)Bear in mind that the operator or user is responsible for accidents or hazards occurring to other people or their property.

5)Do not carry passengers.

6)All drivers should seek and obtain profes- sional and practical training which should emphasise:

– the need for care and concentration when working with the machine;

– control of a machine sliding on a slope will not be regained by the application of the brake. The main reasons for loss of control are:

– insufficient wheel grip;

– being driven too fast;

– inadequate braking;

– the type of machine is unsuitable for its task;

– lack of awareness of the effect of ground conditions, especially slopes;

B) PREPARATION

1)While mowing, always wear substantial footwear and long trousers. Do not operate the equipment when barefoot or wearing open sandals.

2)Thoroughly inspect the area where the equipment is to be used and remove all objects that can be thrown by the machine.

3)DANGER! Petrol is highly flammable:

–store fuel in containers specifically designed for this purpose;

–refuel outdoors only and do not smoke while refuelling;

–add fuel before starting the engine. Never remove the cap of the fuel tank or add petrol while the engine is running or when the engine is hot;

–if petrol is spilled, do not attempt to start the engine but move the machine away from the area of spillage and avoid creating any source of ignition until the petrol vapours have dissi- pated;

–replace all fuel tank and container caps securely.

4)Replace faulty silencers.

5)Before use, always visually inspect to see that the blade, blade bolts and cutter assembly are not worn or damaged. Replace the worn or damaged blade and bolts in sets to preserve the balance.

C) OPERATION

1)Do not operate the engine in a confined space where dangerous carbon monoxide fumes can develop.

2)Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.

3)Before attempting to start the engine, disen- gage the blade and shift into neutral.

4)Do not use on slopes of more than 10° (17%).

5)Remember there is no such thing as a “safe” slope. Travelling on grass slopes re- quires particular care. To guard against over- turning:

– do not stop or start suddenly when going up or downhill;

– engage the clutch slowly and always keep the machine in gear, especially when travelling downhill;

– machine speeds should be kept low on slopes and during tight turns;

– stay alert for humps, hollows and other hid- den hazards;

– never mow across the face of the slope.

6)Stop the blade from rotating before crossing surfaces other than grass.

7)Never operate the machine with defective

guards, or without safety protective devices in place.

8)Do not change the engine governor settings or overspeed the engine. Operating the engine at excessive speed can increase the hazard of personal injury.

9)Before leaving the operator’s position:

–disengage the blade and lower the cutting deck;

–change into neutral and set the parking brake;

–stop the engine and remove the key ( ➤ in the electric start models):

10 Disengage the blade, stop the engine and remove the ignition key ( ➤ in the electric start models):

–before clearing blockages or unclogging chutes;

–before cleaning, checking or working on the machine;

–after striking a foreign object. Inspect the machine for any damage and make repairs