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, and follow all instructions on the machine and in the manual(s) before starting. Be thor- oughly 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., which could be picked up and thrown by the blade.
•Be sure the area is clear of other people before mow- ing. 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 nec- essary. Always look down and behind before and while moving backwards.
•Do not operate the mower without proper guards, 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.
•Stop the engine (motor) whenever you leave the equip- ment, 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 artifi cial light.
•Do not operate the machine while under the infl uence of alcohol or drugs.
•Never operate machine in wet grass. Always be sure of your footing: keep a fi rm 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. Vibration is generally a warning of trouble.
•Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side shields when operating mower.
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:
•Mow across the face of slopes:never up and down. Exer- cise 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 obstacles.
DO NOT:
•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.
•Keep children out of the trimming area and under the watchful 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.
•Use extra care when approaching blind corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may obscure vision.
IV. SERVICE
•Use extra care in handling gasoline and other fuels. They are fl ammable 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 fl ame, 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.
•Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade attachement bolts, tight and keep equipment in good condition.
•Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper operation regularly.
•Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or other debris
•Stop and inspect the equipment if you strike an object. Repair, if necessary, before restarting.
•Never attempt to make wheel height adjustments while the engine (motor) is running.
•Grass catcher components are subject to wear, dam- age, and deterioration, which could expose moving parts or allow objects to be thrown. Frequently check components and replace with manufacturer’s recom- mended parts, when necessary.
•Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves, and use extra caution when servicing them.
•Do not change the engine governor setting or overspeed
2the engine.
