7HL
English / USA
See also the Safety Precautions on 
Starting in the instruction manual of the 
power tool.
Important Adjustments
!Warning!
To reduce the risk of personal injury from 
loss of control or contact with the 
running cutting tool, do not use your unit 
with incorrect idle adjustment. At correct 
idle speed, the cutting tool should not 
move. For directions on how to adjust 
idle speed, see the appropriate section 
of your power tool  instruction manual. 
If you cannot set the correct idle speed, 
have your STIHL dealer check your 
power tool and make proper 
adjustments and repairs.
During Operation
Holding and controlling the power 
tool
Always hold the unit firmly with both 
hands on the handles while you are 
working. Wrap your fingers and thumbs 
around the handles.
Your right hand should grip the rear 
handle. This also applies to left-handers.
!Warning!
Never attempt to operate 
your power tool with one 
hand. Loss of control of 
the power tool resulting in 
serious or fatal injury may 
result. To reduce the risk 
of cut injuries, keep hands and feet away 
from the cutting tool. Never touch a 
moving cutting tool with your hand or 
any other part of your body.
!Warning!
Do not overreach. Keep proper footing 
and balance at all times. Special care 
must be taken in slippery conditions (wet 
ground, snow) and in difficult, overgrown 
terrain. Watch for hidden obstacles such 
as tree stumps, roots and ditches to 
avoid stumbling. For better footing, clear 
away fallen branches, scrub and 
cuttings. Be extremely cautious when 
working on slopes or uneven ground.
!Warning
To reduce the risk of injury from loss of 
control, never work on a ladder, in a tree 
or any other insecure support. Never 
hold the machine above shoulder 
height.
Working conditions
Operate and start your power tool only 
outdoors in a well ventilated area. 
Operate it under good visibility and 
daylight conditions only. Work carefully.
!Warning!
If the vegetation being cut or the 
surrounding ground is coated with a 
chemical substance (such as an active 
pesticide or herbicide), read and follow 
the instructions and warnings that 
accompanied the substance at issue.
002BA057 KN