5
SAFETY RULES
Do not operate on slopes over 10°.
Installing the blower assembly on your mower
requires the removal of the discharge chute and belt
guard. Retain discharge chute, discharge chute
hardware, belt guard, and belt guard hardware in a
safe location and reinstall whenever operating unit
without the blower assembly. DO NOT operate
mower unless guards are in place or blower
assembly and entire bagger are attached.
NEVER operate bagger if the unit’s safety interlock
system is not working properly.
Always be aware of maximum sweep of bagger when
turning. Always allow adequate clearance between
bagger, personnel and other objects when turning.
As grass catcher fills, be alert to changing unit stability
and control.
Always install counterweights before operating unit
with bagger attached. Always remove
counterweights when bagger is removed from the
unit.
Read, understand, and follow all safety practices in
Owner/Operator Manual before beginning assembly.
Failure to follow instructions could result in personal
injury and/or damage to unit.
ALWAYS remove key and/or wire from spark plug before
assembly. Unintentional engine start up can cause death
or serious injury.
Complete a walk around inspection of unit and work area
to understand:
• Work area • Your unit • All safety decals
Determine which attachments are needed and can be
used safely.
Inspect unit before each use for: missing or damaged
decals and shields, correctly operating safety interlock
system, and deterioration of grass bagger. Replace or
repair as needed.
ALWAYS check overhead and side clearances carefully
before operation. ALWAYS be aware of traffic when
operating along streets or curbs.
Keep children and people away.
Keep children out of work area and under watchful care
of a responsible adult.
Keep area of operation clear of all toys, pets, and debris.
Thrown objects can cause injury.
Check for weak spots on docks, ramps or floors. Avoid
uneven work areas and rough terrain. Stay alert for
hidden hazards or traffic.
DO NOT operate near drop-offs, ditches, or
embankments. Unit can suddenly turn over if a wheel is
over the edge of a cliff or ditch, or if an edge caves in.
Data indicates that operators, age 60 and above, are
involved in a larger percentage of riding mower related
injuries. These operators should evaluate their ability to
operate the riding mower safely enough to protect
themselves and others from serious injury.
Read the entire Owner/Operator manual and other
training material. If the operator or the mechanic cannot
read the manual, it is the owner’s responsibility to explain
it to them. Only the user can prevent and is responsible
for accidents or injuries occurring to themselves, other
people or property.
Only trained adults may operate or service unit. Training
includes actual operation.
Local regulations may restrict the age of the operator.
NEVER allow children to operate or play on or near unit.
Be alert and shut off unit if children enter area.
NEVER operate unit after or during the use of
medication, drugs or alcohol. Safe operation requires
your complete and unimpaired attention at all times.
DO NOT wear loose clothing or jewelry and tie back hair
that may get caught in rotating parts.
Wear adequate outer garments.
NEVER wear open sandals or canvas shoes during
operation. Wear adequate safety gear, protective gloves
and footwear.
Wear proper footwear to improve footing on slippery
surfaces.
Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side
shields when operating mower.
Moving parts can cut or amputate fingers or a hand.
Wrap blade(s) or wear gloves to service. On multiblade
mowers, rotation of one blade will cause all blades to
rotate.
NEVER place your hands or any part of your body or
clothing inside or near any moving part while unit is
running.
ALWAYS keep hands and feet away from all rotating
parts during operation. Rotating parts can cut off body
parts.
ALWAYS keep body and hands away from pin holes or
nozzles which eject hydraulic fluid under pressure.
DO NOT touch parts which are hot. Allow parts to cool.
ALWAYS keep hands and feet away from all pinch
points.
Fumes from the engine exhaust can cause death or
serious injury. DO NOT run engine in an enclosed area.
Always provide good ventilation.
Read, understand, and follow all instructions in the
manual and on the machine before starting.
Understand:
• How to operate all controls
• The functions of all controls
• How to STOP in an emergency
• Braking and steering characteristics
