Ryobi Outdoor RY46501A manual General Safety Rules, Read These Instructions

GENERAL SAFETY RULES

WARNING:

READ AND UNDERSTAND ALL INSTRUCTIONS. Fail- ure to follow all instructions listed below may result in electric shock, fire, and/or serious personal injury.

READ THESE INSTRUCTIONS

nRead the operator’s manual carefully. Be thoroughly famil- iar with the controls and the proper use of the equipment. Know how to stop the unit and disengage the controls quickly.

nDo not operate power tools in explosive atmospheres, such as in the presence of flammable liquids, gases, or dust. Power tools create sparks which may ignite the dust or fumes.

nDouble insulated tools are equipped with a polarized plug (one blade is wider than the other). This plug will fit in a polarized outlet only one way. If the plug does not fit fully in the outlet, reverse the plug. If it still does not fit, contact a qualified electrician to install a polarized outlet. Do not change the plug in any way. Double insulation eliminates the need for the three-wire grounded power cord and grounded power supply system.

nAvoid body contact with grounded surfaces such as pipes, radiators, ranges, and refrigerators. There is an increased risk of electric shock if your body is grounded.

nDon’t expose power tools to rain or wet conditions. Wa- ter entering a power tool will increase the risk of electric shock.

nDo not abuse the cord. Never use the cord to carry the tools or pull the plug from an outlet. Keep cord away from heat, oil, sharp edges, or moving parts. Replace damaged cords immediately. Damaged cords increase the risk of electric shock.

nUse outdoor extension cords marked “W-A” or “W.” These cords are rated for outdoor use and reduce the risk of electric shock.

nNever allow children to operate the equipment. Never allow adults to operate the equipment without proper instruction.

nAlways wear safety glasses with side shields. Everyday glasses have only impact resistant lenses. They are NOT safety glasses. Following this rule will reduce the risk of eye injury.

nWear heavy long pants, boots, and gloves. Avoid loose garments or jewelry that could get caught in moving parts of the machine or its motor.

nDo not operate the equipment while barefoot or when wearing sandals or similar lightweight footwear. Wear protective footwear that will protect your feet and improve your footing on slippery surfaces.

nSecure long hair so it is above shoulder level to prevent entanglement in any moving parts.

nDo not operate the cultivator while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

nDo not put hands or feet near or under tines.

nExercise caution to avoid slipping or falling.

nAvoid accidental starting. Be sure the switch trigger is not engaged before plugging in.

nNever pick up or carry a machine while the tines are turn- ing or the motor is running.

nKeep machine in good working condition.

nCheck all nuts, bolts, and screws at frequent intervals for proper tightness to be sure the equipment is in safe working condition.

nKeep the unit free of grass, leaves, or grease to reduce the chance of a fire hazard.

nDo not use tool if switch does not turn it on or off. Any tool that cannot be controlled with the switch is dangerous and must be repaired.

nDisconnect the plug from power source before making any adjustments, changing accessories, or storing the tool. Such preventive safety measures reduce the risk of starting the tool accidentally.

nBefore cleaning, repairing, or inspecting, unplug the culti- vator and make certain all moving parts have stopped.

nNever spray water directly into the motor compartment of the cultivator.

nService on the cultivator must be performed by qualified repair personnel only. Service or maintenance performed by unqualified personnel could result in injury to the user or damage to the product.

nUse only identical replacement parts when servicing the cultivator. Use of unauthorized parts may create a risk of serious injury to the user, or damage to the product.

3