Stihl MS 261 Instruction Manual page 13

WARNING
As soon as the engine is
running, this product gen -
erates toxic exhaust
fumes containing chemi -
cals, such as unburned
hydrocarbons (including
benzene) and carbon
monoxide, that are
known to cause respira -
tory problems, cancer,
birth defects, or other
reproductive harm. Some
of the gases (e. g. carbon
monoxide) may be color -
less and odorless. To
reduce the risk of serious
or fatal injury/illness from
inhaling toxic fumes,
never run the machine
indoors or in poorly venti -
lated locations. If exhaust
fumes become concen -
trated due to insufficient
ventilation, clear obstruc -
tions from work area to
permit proper ventilation
before proceeding and/or
take frequent breaks to
allow fumes to dissipate
before they become
concentrated.
WARNING
Operate your chain saw so that it
produces a minimum of noise and
emissions – do not run engine
unnecessarily and accelerate the engine
only for cutting.
MS 261
WARNING
Use of this chain saw (including
sharpening the saw chain) can also
generate dust, mist and fumes
containing chemicals that are known to
cause respiratory problems, cancer,
birth defects, or other reproductive
harm. If you are unfamiliar with the risks
associated with the particular dust, mist
or fume at issue, consult your employer,
governmental agencies such as OSHA
and NIOSH and other sources on
hazardous materials. California and
some other authorities, for instance,
have published lists of substances
known to cause cancer, reproductive
toxicity, etc.
WARNING
Inhalation of certain dusts, especially
organic dusts such as mold or pollen,
can cause susceptible persons to have
an allergic or asthmatic reaction.
Substantial or repeated inhalation of
dust and other airborne contaminants, in
particular those with a smaller particle
size, may cause respiratory or other
illnesses. This includes wood dust,
especially from hardwoods, but also
from some softwoods such as Western
Red Cedar. Control dust (such as saw
dust), mists (such as oil mist from chain
lubrication) and engine fumes at the
source where possible. Use good work
practices, such as always cutting with a
properly sharpened saw chain (which
produces wood chips rather than fine
dust) and operating the unit so that the
wind or operating process directs any
dust raised by the chain saw away from
the operator. Follow the
recommendations of
EPA/OSHA/NIOSH and occupational
and trade associations with respect to
dust ("particulate matter"). When the
inhalation of dust cannot be
substantially controlled, i.e., kept at or
near the ambient (background) level, the
operator and any bystanders should
wear a respirator approved by NIOSH /
MSHA for the type of dust encountered.
WARNING
Breathing asbestos dust is dangerous
and can cause severe or fatal injury,
respiratory illness or cancer. The use
and disposal of asbestos-containing
products have been strictly regulated by
OSHA and the Environmental Protection
Agency. Do not use your chain saw to
cut or disturb asbestos or asbestos-
containing products. If you have any
reason to believe that you might be
cutting asbestos, immediately stop
cutting and contact your employer or a
local OSHA representative.
Operating Instructions
WARNING
Do not operate your chain saw with the
starting throttle lock engaged. Cutting
with the starting throttle lock engaged
does not permit the operator proper
control of the chain saw or saw chain
speed. Begin and continue cutting with
the saw at full throttle, engage the
bumper spike firmly in the wood (if
possible) and then continue cutting.
Always work with the bumper spike so
that you have better control of the saw. If
you work without the bumper spike the
chain saw may pull you forwards
suddenly.
English
11