0478 403 9802 B - EN
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models MH 445 and MH 445 R, the 
working width is increased using additional 
hoes (STIHL accessories), the larger 
impact protectors (supplied in the scope of 
delivery of the accessories) must also be 
installed.
Push or pull the machine to the area to be 
worked with the aid of the transport 
wheels.
Before operating, remove any foreign 
objects (tools, cloths, etc.) placed on the 
machine.
4.6 Working with your machine
Keep other persons out of the 
danger area. Never work when 
animals or persons, particularly 
children, are in the danger area.
Caution: Objects such as soil, stones, etc. 
can be thrown up or thrown out sideways 
during working.
The machine may only be operated by one 
person. The operator must stay within the 
working area when the engine is running. 
(Ö 10.1)
During operation, the machine must not be 
lifted, pushed or pulled at the transport 
handle, guard plate or at other machine 
parts except for the handles of the 
handlebar – and especially not by a 
second person.
The switch and safety devices installed in 
the machine must not be removed or 
bypassed. In particular, never secure the 
self-propulsion lever to the upper 
handlebar (e.g. by tying it).
Caution – risk of injury!
Never put hands or feet on or 
underneath rotating parts. 
Always observe the safety 
distance provided by the handlebar. This 
safety distance corresponds to the length 
of the properly installed and folded-out 
handlebar. Do not modify the handlebar 
and never operate the machine with the 
handlebar folded down.
Never attach any objects to the handlebar 
(e.g. work clothing).
Only work during the day or with good 
artificial light.
Do not operate the machine in the rain or 
during thunder storms, particularly when 
there is  a risk of lightning strike.
The risk of accidents is higher if the ground 
is damp due to increased danger of 
slipping.
Particular caution should be exercised 
during working in order to prevent slipping. 
If possible, avoid using the machine when 
the ground is damp.
Do not operate the machine on tarmac or 
paved areas, etc. with the hoes attached.
Use the machine with great care when 
working near slopes, terraces, ditches and 
embankments. In particular, ensure that 
you maintain sufficient distance to such 
danger areas.
Exhaust gases:
The machine generates 
poisonous exhaust gases when 
the engine is running. The 
gases contain poisonous carbon 
monoxide, a colourless and odourless gas, 
as well as other pollutants. The engine 
must never be operated in closed or poorly 
ventilated spaces.
Observe discharge direction of exhaust 
gases. Never point the exhaust towards 
persons.
Starting:
Exercise care when starting the machine 
and observe the instructions contained in 
the section entitled "Operating the 
machine" (Ö 11.). Starting the machine in 
accordance with these instructions 
reduces the risk of injury.
Risk of injury!
If the starter rope recoils at speed, the 
hand and arm will be pulled towards the 
engine faster than the starter rope can be 
released. This kickback can result in 
broken bones, crush injuries and sprains.
Ensure that you keep your feet far enough 
away from the work tools.
The machine must not be tilted during 
start-up.
The self-propulsion levers must not be 
pressed when starting.
Working on slopes:
Always work across and back on slopes, 
never up and down.
The operator must never stand below the 
running machine on a slope. If the user 
loses control, there is a risk of being run 
over by the machine.
Be particularly careful when changing 
direction on a slope.
Always ensure good stability on slopes 
and avoid mowing on excessively steep 
slopes.
Danger to life through poisoning!
In the case of nausea, headache, 
impaired vision (e.g. decreasing 
field of view) hearing disorder, 
dizziness, decreasing power of 
concentration, stop working 
immediately. These symptoms may 
be caused by excessively high 
exhaust gas concentrations.