Safe Operating Practices
Some of the following safety instructions are from ANSI Standard B-71.4-2004 while others are specific to the Hustler Mid Mount Z line.
This product is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing objects. Always follow all safety instructions to avoid serious injury or death.
Operation
Evaluate the terrain to determine what accessories and attachments are needed to properly and safely perform the job. Only use accessories and attachments approved by the manufacturer.
Never leave a running machine unattended. Always stop on level ground, disengage deck clutch, place steering control levers in park brake position, stop tractor engine, and remove ignition key before leaving operator’s seat for any reason including emptying the catcher or unclog- ging the chute.
Do not change the engine governor setting or overspeed the engine. Operating the engine at excessive speed may increase the hazard of personal injury.
Always remain seated while operating machine.
Always keep safety shields and covers in place, except for servicing.
Always maintain a safe distance from people and pets when mowing. Always stop machine if someone enters the area.
Always operate machine in daylight or with adequate working lights.
Follow daily and weekly checklists, making sure hoses are tightly secured and bolts are tightened.
Always observe traffic laws while driving machine from one location to another. Watch for traffic when operating near or crossing roadways.
Always be alert for hazards such as rocks, metal objects and other debris which may be thrown or entangled by mower blades. Watch out for holes or deep depressions. Inspect area to be mowed for hazards such as rocks, metal objects and other debris which may be thrown or entangled by mower blades. Remove these objects before mowing.
Always inspect machine for damage after striking a for- eign object. If damage is found, repair machine immedi- ately. Be sure to stop on level ground, disengage deck clutch, place steering control levers in park brake posi- tion, stop tractor engine, and remove ignition key when leaving operator’s seat to inspect damage.
Always wear adequate ear protection, such as earplugs, when operating this equipment as prolonged exposure to uncomfortable or loud noises can cause impairment or loss of hearing. Do not wear radios or music headphones while operating the machinery. Safe operation requires your full attention.
Do not operate the equipment while wearing sandals, ten- nis shoes, sneakers, shorts or any type of loose fitting clothing. Do not use a towel as a headband or neck wrap
and do not hang towel from the waist. Long hair, loose clothing or jewelry may get tangled in moving parts. Always wear long pants, safety glasses, ear protection and safety shoes when operating this machine.
Always be aware of what is behind the machine before backing up. Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary. Always look down and behind before and while backing up.
Never push forward suddenly on your control levers while the machine is in rearward motion because machine may tip backwards.
Never pull back suddenly on your control levers while the machine is in forward motion.
When moving in reverse, push forward slowly on control levers and avoid sudden movement. Rapid movement of the control levers in either direction could result in a reaction of the tractor that can cause serious injury.
Never operate a poorly maintained machine.
Never attempt high speed maneuvering, especially in crowded or congested areas.
Never allow persons to operate this machine without proper instruction or allow children to operate machine. Allow only responsible adults who are familiar with these instructions to operate this machine.
Never put hands or feet under any part of the machine while it is running.
Never carry passengers.
Never direct discharged material toward anyone. Avoid discharging material against a wall or obstruction. Mate- rial may ricochet back towards the operator. Always dis- engage the blades and wait for them to stop before crossing gravel drives, walks or roads.
Always keep clear of the mower blades and attachments during their operation.
Turn off blades when not mowing. Slow down before turning.
Stop the engine before removing the grass catcher or unclogging the discharge chute. Never clear the dis- charge chute with the engine running. Turn off the engine and be sure the blades have stopped before clean- ing. Use a stick to clear a plugged discharge area. Never use your hand!
Always keep clear of the mower blades and attachments during operation.
Do not operate the machine if you are fatigued, sick or while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, if your are pregnant or under 18 years old.
Exercise caution when loading or unloading the machine onto a trailer or truck.
Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side shields when operating the mower.
Data indicates that operators, age 60 years and above, are involved in a large percentage of riding mower-related injuries. These operators should evaluate their ability to operate the mower safely enough to protect themselves and others from serious injury.
