3
Safety
– 6 –
• Prepare beforehand the working rules and procedures such as signaling and trafic con-
trol for the work place. Following such rules will reduce the risk of accidents.
• Never handle fuel or grease, service the engine, or recharge the battery in the presence
of fire or spark.
• Perform the daily pre-startup inspection (see Preparation, pages 18) before starting the
machine. Repair or replace damaged parts before starting the machine.
3.1.3
Operation
This machine is intended for cutting grass and bushes. Any other use may pose hazard or cause damage to the
machine.
The stability of the machine is affected by the speed, rate of steering, terrain and the operator's weight. Always
pay close attention to these factors or a loss of control or tip over could occur, resulting in property damage,
serious injury or death.
General Driving
• Do not operate the engine in a confined space where dangerous carbon monoxide fumes
can accumulate.
• Do not touch the engine, muffler or exhaust pipe while the engine is running or soon after
it has stopped. These areas will be very hot and can cause burns.
• Do not operate the machine under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Do not operate the
machine when you are tired, ill, or not feeling well.
• Always check for obstacles before operating on new terrain. This includes overhead
obstacles such as the branches of a tree.
• Before starting the engine and moving the machine, scan around your surroundings and
make sure all persons and other vehicles are a safe distance away from the machine.
• On a slippery surface, travel slowly and exercise caution to reduce the chance of skidding
or sliding out of control. Never operate on ice.
• Always make certain that there is no obstacle or a person behind the machine when
backing up. After confirming that it is safe to back up, move slowly and avoid sharp turns.
• To reduce the risk of tip over, pay special attention when encountering an obstacle or a
slope, or when braking on a slope or during a turn. See Driving on a Slope on the next
page.
• Never attempt to drive over a large obstacle such as rock or fallen tree.
• Always travel slowly and use extra caution when operating on unfamiliar terrain. Be alert
when traveling on changing terrain.
• Never operate on terrain that you are not comfortable with. Avoid terrain that is so rough,
slippery or loose that you feel like you could tip over.
