6
Improper use of power equipment can cause serious
permanent injury or death to the operator or a
bystander.
Understand:
•
How to operate all controls.
•
The functions of all controls.
•
How to STOP in an emergency.
•
Braking and steering characteristics.
•
Turning radius and clearances.
If the operator or the mechanic cannot read
the
manual, it is the owner’s responsibility to explain it
to them.
ALWAYS train any inexperienced operators and
require them to read and understand all manuals
and decals.
Only allow responsible adults, who are familiar with
the instructions, to operate this machine.
Only the operator can prevent and is
responsible for
accidents or injuries
occurring to themselves, other
people, or property.
Operator Age
DO NOT allow children under the age of 18
to
operate any outdoor power equipment.
Local regulations may restrict the age of the
operator.
Data indicates operators age 60 years and
above are
involved in a large percentage of mower-related
injuries. These operators should evaluate their
ability
to operate the mower in a safe enough
manner to
protect themselves and others from
serious
injury.
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.
Be alert and turn machine off if a child enters the
area.
Before and while backing, look behind and down for
small children.
NEVER allow children to climb on the mower, even
with the blade(s) shut off. They may fall off and be
seriously injured or interfere with safe machine
operation. Children who have been allowed to ride
on it in the past may suddenly appear in the mowing
area for another ride and may be run over or backed
over by the machine.
NEVER allow children to operate the machine.
Use extreme care when approaching blind corners,
shrubs, trees, or other objects that may block your
view of a child.
Keep children out of the mowing area and in the
watchful care of a responsible adult other than the
operator.
Personal Protection
DO NOT wear loose clothing or jewelry and
tie back
hair that may get caught in rotating parts.
Wear adequate outer garments.
NEVER wear open sandals or canvas shoes during
operation. Wear adequate safety gear, protective
gloves, and footwear.
Wear proper footwear to improve footing on slippery
surfaces.
ALWAYS wear eye protection when operating
machine.
Before Operating
Keep all nuts and bolts tight to be sure the
equipment is in safe working condition.
Maintain the machine to be in compliance with the
maintenance schedule.
Clean grass and debris from unit, especially from
around muffler and engine, to help prevent fires.
Check parking brake operation frequently. Service
as required.
Inspect unit before each use for missing or damaged
decals and shields. Replace or repair as needed.
Ensure Safety Interlock System is functioning
properly. DO NOT operate unit if safety interlock is
damaged or disabled.
Start and operate unit only when operator and all
bystanders are at least 30 feet away.
Steering control joystick must be in neutral and PTO
disengaged when starting engine.
NEVER interfere with the intended function of a
safety device or reduce the protection provided by
a safety device. Check their proper operation
regularly.
Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or other debris
build-up. Clean up oil or fuel spillage
and remove
any fuel-soaked debris.
Operation
Be sure the area is clear of bystanders
before
operating. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.