3 SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
3-1
Important
This 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.
•
This machine is constructed only for off-road
use mowing grass on lawns without obstacles
such as stones, tree stumps, and steep inclines.
•
The machine can also be used for other tasks
when equipped with approved attachments, for
example the Grass Gobbler and Velke. Some
accessories may void your warranty.
•
Lawn machines and all power equipment can
be dangerous if used improperly or by untrained
operators.
•
The owner/user can prevent and is responsible
for accidents, injuries occurring to people, or
damage to property.
•
Only operate the machine in daylight or good
artificial light. Failure to clearly see the ground
while operating may result in sudden impact,
loss of control, or thrown objects.
•
Only operate the engine in well ventilated
areas. Exhaust gases contain carbon
monoxide, a deadly poison.
•
Lightning can cause severe injury or death.
If lightning is seen, or thunder is heard in the
area, do not operate the machine.
•
Do not operate the machine while tired, ill, or
under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
•
This machine is designed for use by physically
fit, experienced, and professional commercial
operators which must be no less than 120
pounds and no more than 325 pounds.
•
Do not wear radio or music headphones or use
a digital device. Safe service and operation
require your full attention.
•
Always follow OSHA approved operation.
•
When machine is left unattended, stored, or
parked, lower the cutter deck until it rests on a
positive mechanical stop.
•
Do not carry passengers and keep bystanders
away.
•
Do not carry equipment on the machine.
•
When loading or unloading use only a full-width
ramp which is wider than the machine, provides
good traction, and is not positioned with a steep
angle. Use caution when loading or unloading.
•
When hauling, tie the machine down with
appropriately rated straps or chains.
•
Never leave or park the machine unattended on
sloped ground or incline.
•
Use only approved repair parts to maintain.
•
Unauthorized modifications to the machine may
impair its function and safety.
Safety features
The machine is designed with your safety in mind.
It has the following safety systems with which you
should become familiar:
•
The warning decals on the machine including
the instrument panel and cutter deck.
•
The brake must be engaged and the PTO/blade
switch “off” prior to starting the engine.
•
The OPC switch must be actuated in order to
engage the blades.
•
Disengaging the Operator Presence Control
(OPC) switch while the blades are running will
cause the engine and blades to stop with-in 7
seconds.
•
Spring loaded chute deflector helps reduce
trajectory of thrown objects.
•
Belt, pulley, fan, and heat covers on to reduce
access to moving and hot parts.
•
Anti-tip rollers provided at the rear of the
machine reduce the risk of machine tipping.
•
DO NOT disable any of the safety features.
•
Unauthorized modifications to the design of
the machine will absolve the manufacturer
from liability for any resulting personal injury or
property damage.
Training
•
Read the operators manual, warnings, labels,
attachments manual, engine manual, and other
training material carefully. If the operator or
mechanic cannot read the language provided,
it is the owner’s responsibility to explain this
material to them.
•
Become familiar with the safe operation of the
equipment, operator controls, and safety signs.
•
All operators and mechanics should be trained.
The owner is responsible for training the users.
•
Never let children or untrained people operate
or service the equipment. Local regulations may
restrict the age of the operator.
•
The owner/user can prevent and is responsible
for accidents or injuries occurring to himself or
herself, other people, or damage to property.
•
Only allow operators, who are responsible,
trained, familiar with the instructions, and
physically capable to operate the machine.
Preparation
•
Carefully inspect and walk the property where
you plan to use the machine for hidden, hard-
to-see objects or uneven ground that may
be hidden in the grass. Uneven terrain could
overturn the machine, or cause the operator to
lose balance or footing.
•
Clear the work area of moveable objects,
including but not limited to, rocks, glass,
toys, wires, dog chains/cables, and golf balls
that might be picked up by the machine and
dangerously thrown.
