Bush Hog HDTH8, Operator'S Manual, Page: 39 / 172

10
Prepare For Safe Operation
Know The Work Area
Before you operate the mower thoroughly inspect
the work area. Walk around the area and inspect the
surfaces you will travel on when using the mower.
Locate and avoid:
— Holes
— Drop-offs
— Obstacles
(stumps)
— Excavations
— Standing water
Look for debris and obstacles by walking the area before
you mow. Objects like wire, cable, rocks, tires, and metal
objects that could damage or be thrown by the mower
must be removed or marked clearly and avoided.
Correct unsafe conditions. Do not operate in problem
areas where debris and obstacles cannot be removed
or marked.
Analyze mowing area to determine:
— The most effi cient mowing procedure.
— The height of the material to be mowed.
— Operating terrain conditions.
— How to best use forward mowing pattern.
— The potential for bystanders or passers-by to be
exposed to thrown objects.
Look Out For Others
Before starting equipment:
— Walk around the equipment.
— Check for anyone under, on or near the equipment.
— Clear everyone from these areas.
— Sound a warning.
Remove or
Mark Debris and
Obstacles
Walk
Around the
Worksite
— Deep mud
— Wet spots
— Soft soil
— Rough spots
— Power lines
and apparatus
— Other utilities
— Any conditions
which could
cause collision,
loss of control
or tipover
— Steep slopes
Prepare For Safe Operation
Mount And Dismount Tractor Properly
Always use three-point contact when mounting or
dismounting the tractor or mower. Face the machine
when you enter or leave the machine. Three-point
contact means that three out of four arms and legs are
in contact with the machine at all times during mount
and dismount.
Before mounting:
— Clean shoes and wipe hands. Clean steps and
handholds of snow, ice, mud or oil.
During mounting and dismounting:
— Use handholds and step plates.
— Never grab steering wheels or controls for handholds.
— Never mount or dismount from a moving tractor.
— Never mount or dismount while carrying tools or
objects that prevent three-point contact. Put parts or
tools down. Maintaining proper contact, climb and
then pick up the object.
Use
Three-Point
Contact
Clean Up
Slippery Areas