5
Most accidents with walk behind mowers can be prevented if you follow all instruc-
tions in this manual and those posted on the greens mower. The most common haz-
ards are discussed in the following sections, along with the best way to protect your-
self and others.
Wear protective clothing
•
It will reduce your risk of injury. Long pants, safety glasses, hard hats, gloves, ear
protection, and sturdy shoes help protect you from thrown objects and other hazards.
Before operating mower
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Look for signs of oil or gasoline leaks.
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Look for signs of damage.
•
Check each control for proper operation.
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Check all connectors such as nuts, bolts, and screws to be sure they are properly
tighened.
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Check the blades for wear. Replace as necessary.
•
Check that all tires, levers, and brakes are functional.
•
Always inspect the machine before operation. Be sure hardware is tight. Repair
or replace damaged, badly worn, or missing parts.
•
Inspect guards and shields to be sure they are in good condition and fastened
in place.
•
Use only attachments or accessories approved by the manufacturer.
Do not operate the mower
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If you are extremely tired, either physically or mentally.
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If you are sick, under the influence of medication or substances that may affect
your vision or good judgment. Impaired judgment can result in serious injury.
•
If you are not properly trained. CAREFULLY READ THE MANUAL. Greens
mower operation requires skill, training, and experience.
•
Never permit operation by a minor.
Important Safety Instructions
Safe practices:equipment operation - Continued
•
Before starting the engine, disengage the change lever from the reel “on position,”
shift into neutral, and engage the parking brake.
•
When using any attachment, never direct discharge of material toward bystanders.
Do not allow anyone near the machine while it is in operation.
•
Disengage drive to attachments when they are not in use.
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If you feel abnormal vibration or hear abnormal sound, stop the engine immediately
and inspect the mower for possible damage. Make necessary repairs before restart-
ing and operating the equipment.
•
Operate mower at low speed when making sharp turns or descending slopes.
Avoid sudden stops and starts.
•
If you strike an object, stop and inspect your equipment. If necessary, repair
before restarting.
•
Never attempt to make any adjustment while the engine is running.
•
Let the engine and exhaust system cool before touching.
•
When equipment is in questionable condition, do not run the engine unless instruct-
ed to do so.
•
For safety, the grass basket must be in place during operation of the wheel. Turn
off the engine before removing the basket.
•
Do not wear headphones or ear plugs while operating the greens mower. Wear
only appropriate ear protection.
•
Use care when loading or unloading the greens mower onto or off a trailer or truck.
•
Use good judgment to protect yourself from back injury.
Safe practices: equipment operation
•
For your safety and the safety of others, inspect your work area before operating
the mower.
•
Review Important Safety Instructions.
•
Even if you have operated other mowers, take time to become familiar with the
way this mower works. Practice in a safe area until you build up your skills.
•
Avoid starting or operating the engine in an enclosed area. The mower’s exhaust
contains poisonous carbon monoxide gas which can collect rapidly in an enclosed
area and cause illness or death.
•
Operate the engine at normal speed. Never change the engine governor setting to
permit excessive speed.