8
Safe Operation Practices
Training
1.
Read the instructions carefully. Be familiar with the
controls and the proper use of the equipment.
2.
Never allow children or people unfamiliar with
these instructions to use the mower. Local
regulations may restrict the age of the operator.
3.
Never mow while people, especially children, or
pets are nearby.
4.
Keep in mind that the operator or user is respon-
sible for accidents or hazards occurring to other
people or their property.
5.
Do not carry passengers.
6.
All drivers should seek and obtain professional
and practical instruction. Such instruction should
emphasize:
a.
the need for care and concentration when
working with ride-on machines;
b.
control of a ride--on machine sliding on a slope
will not be regained by the application of the
brake. The main reasons for loss of control
are:
•
insufficient wheel grip;
•
being driven too fast;
•
inadequate braking
•
the type of machine is unsuitable for its
task;
•
lack of awareness of the effect of ground
conditions, especially slopes;
•
incorrect hitching and load distribution.
For Ride-On (Riding) Rotary Mower Ma-
chines
Preparation
1.
While mowing, always wear substantial footwear
and long trousers. Do not operate the equipment
when barefoot or wearing open sandals.
2.
Thoroughly inspect the area where the equipment
will be used and remove all objects which may
be thrown by the machine.
3.
W
WARNING-Petrol is highly flammable.
a.
Store fuel in containers specifically
designed for this purpose.
b.
Refuel outdoors only and do not smoke while
refuelling.
c.
Add fuel before starting the engine. Never
remove the cap of the fuel tank or add petrol
while the engine is running or when the engine
is hot.
d.
If petrol is spilled, do not attempt to start the
engine but move the machine away from the
area of spillage and avoid creating any source
of ignition until petrol vapours have dissipated
e.
Replace all fuel tanks and container caps
securely.
4.
Replace faulty silencers.
5.
Before using, always visually inspect to see that
the blades, blade bolts and cutter assembly are
not worn or damaged. Replace worn or damaged
blades and bolts in sets to preserve balance.
6.
On multi-blade machines, take care as rotating
one blade can cause other blades to rotate.
Operation
1.
Do not operate the engine in a confined space
where dangerous carbon monoxide fumes can
collect.
2.
Mow only in daylight or in good artificial light.
3.
Before attempting to start the engine, disengage
all blade attachment clutches and shift into
neutral.
4.
Do not use on slopes of more than 10 degrees.
5.
Remember there is no such thing as a “safe”
slope. Travel on grass slopes requires particular
care. To guard against overturning:
a.
do not stop or start suddenly when going up or
downhill;
b.
engage clutch slowly, always keep machine in
gear, especially when travelling downhill;
c.
machine speeds should be kept low on slopes
and during tight turns;
d.
stay alert for humps and hollows and other
hidden hazards;
e.
never mow across the face of the slope, un-
less the mower is designed for this purpose.
6.
Use care when pulling loads or using heavy
equipment.
a.
Use only approved drawbar hitch points.
b.
Limit loads to those you can safely control.
c.
Do not turn sharply. Use care when reversing.
d.
Use counterweight(s) or wheel weights when
suggested in the Instruction Book.
7.
Watch out for traffic when crossing or near
roadways.
8.
Stop the blades rotating before crossing surfaces
other than grass.