Loading ...
SAFETY RULES
SAFE OPERATION PRACTICES FOR RIDE-ON MOWERS
IMPORTANT: THIS CUTTING MACHINE IS CAPABLE OF AMPUTATING HANDS AND FEET AND THROWING OBJECTS.
FAILURE TO OBSERVE THE FOLLOWING SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.
I. GENERALOPERATION
• Read, understand, and follow all instructions in the
manual and on the machine before starting.
• Only allow responsible adults,who are familiar with the
instructions, to operate the machine.
• Clear the area of objects such as rocks, toys, wire,
etc., whichcould be pickedup andthrown bytheblade.
• Be sure thearea isclear ofotherpeople beforemowing.
Stop machine ifanyone enters the area.
• Never carry passengers.
• Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary.
Always lookdownand behind beforeandwhilebacking.
• Be aware ofthe mower discharge direction and do not
point itat anyone. Do notoperate the mower without
either the entire grass catcher or the guard in place.
• Slow down before turning.
• Never leave a running machine unattended. Always
turn off blades, set parking brake, stop engine, and
remove keys before dismounting.
Turn offblades when not mowing.
• Stop engine before removinggrass catcher orunclog-
ging chute.
• Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.
• Do not operate the machinewhile under the influence
of alcohol or drugs.
• Watch for traffic when operating near or crossing
roadways.
• Use extracare when loadingor unloadingthe machine
into a trailer or truck.
• Data indicates thatoperators, age60 years and above,
are involved in a large percentage of riding mower-
related injuries. These operatorsshouldevaluate their
ability to operate the riding mower safely enough to
protect themselves and othersfrom serious injury.
II. SLOPE OPERATION
Slopes are a major factor related to loss-of-control and
tipover accidents, which can result in severe injury or death.
All slopes require extra caution. Ifyou cannot back up the
slope or if you feel uneasy on it, do not mow it.
• Mow up and down slopes, not across.
• Remove obstacles such as recks, tree limbs, etc.
• Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneven terrain could
overturn the machine. Ta!l grass can hide obstacles.
• Use slow speed. Choose a low gear so that you will not
have to stop or shift while on the slope.
• Followthe manufacturer's recommendations for wheel
weights or counterweights to improve stability.
• Use extra care with grass catchers or other attach-
ments. These can change thestability ofthe machine,
• Keepallmovementontheslopesslowandgradual. Do
not make sudden changes in speed or direction.
Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If tires lose
traction, disengage the blades and proceed slowly
straight down the slope.
DO NOT:
• Do not turn on slopesunless necessary, and then, turn
slowly and gradually downhill, ifpossible.
• Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or embankments.
The mowercould suddenlyturnover ifawheel isover the
edge of a cliff or ditch, or if an edge caves in.
• Donotmowonwetgrass.Reducedtractionoouldcause
sliding.
• Do not try to stabilize the machine by putting your foot
on the ground.
• Do not use grass catcher on steep slopes.
III. 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.
• Keep children out of the mowing area and under the
watchful care of another responsible adult.
° Be alert and turn machine off if children enter the area.
• Beforeandwhenbacking, lookbehindanddownforsmall
children.
• Never carry children. They may fall off and be sedously
injured or interfere with safe machine operation.
• Never allow children to operate the machine.
• Use extra care when approaching blind corners, shrubs,
trees, or other objects that may obscure vision.
IV. SERVICE
• Use extracare inhandling gasoline and otherfuels. They
are flammable and vapors are explosive.
Use only an approved container.
Never remove gas cap or add fuel with the engine
running.AIIowenginetocoolbefore refueling. Donot
smoke.
Never refuel themachine indoors.
Never store the machine or fuel container inside
where there isanopenflame, suchas a water heater.
• Never runa machine inside a closed area.
• Keep nuts and bolts,especially blade attachment bolts,
tight and keep equipment in good condition.
Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper
operation rogularly.
• Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or other debris build-
up. Clean oil or fuel spillage. Allow machine to cool
before storing.
• Stop and inspect the equipment if you strike an object.
Repair, if necessary, before restarting.
• Never make adjustments or repairs with the engine
running.
Grass catcher components are subject to wear, damage,
and deterioration, which could expose moving parts or
allow objects to be thrown. Frequently check compo-
nents and replace with manufacturer's recommended
parts, when necessary.
• Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the blade(s)
or wear gloves, and use extra caution when servicing
them.
• Check brake operation frequently. Adjust and service as
required.
2
Loading ...
Loading ...
Loading ...