Safety Precautions And Working Techniques - Stihl FS 55 Instruction Manual

Safety Precautions and
Working Techniques
Because a trimmer /
brushcutter is a high-
speed, fast-cutting power
tool sometimes equipped
with sharp cutting blades,
special safety precau-
tions must be observed to
reduce the risk of per-
sonal injury.
It is important that you
read, fully understand
and observe the following
safety precautions and
warnings. Read the
instruction manual and
the safety precautions
periodically. Careless or
improper use may cause
serious or fatal injury.
The terminology utilized in this manual
when referring to the power tool reflects
the fact that different types of cutting
attachments may be mounted on it. The
term "trimmer" is used to designate an
FS unit that is equipped with a nylon line
head or a head with flexible plastic
blades (i.e., the PolyCut head). A
"brushcutter" designates a unit
equipped with a rigid metal blade. Many
FS models may be used as either a
trimmer or a brushcutter – therefore, the
power tool is referred in this manual as a
"trimmer / brushcutter." Some smaller
and / or lightweight FS models may only
be used as a trimmer, i.e., they may not
be used with metal blades.
FS 55, FS 55 C, FS 55 R, FS 55 RC
FS models with an "R" on the nameplate
were originally configured (at the time of
distribution) as a trimmer with a loop
handle.
Warning!
As more fully explained later in these
Safety Precautions, to reduce the risk of
personal injury, make sure your unit is
equipped with the proper handle, har-
ness and deflector for the type of cutting
attachment you are using. Use only cut-
ting attachments that are specifically
authorized by STIHL for use on your FS
model.
Have your STIHL dealer show you how
to operate your power tool. Observe all
applicable local safety regulations,
standards and ordinances.
Warning!
Do not lend or rent your power tool with-
out the instruction manual. Be sure that
anyone using it understands the infor-
mation contained in this manual.
Warning!
The use of this machine may be hazard-
ous. If the rotating line or blade comes in
contact with your body, it will cut you.
When it comes in contact with solid for-
eign objects such as rocks or bits of
metal, it may fling them directly or by ric-
ochet in the direction of bystanders or
the operator. Striking such objects could
damage the cutting attachment and may
cause blades to crack, chip or break.
Thrown objects, including broken heads
or blades, may result in serious or fatal
injury to the operator or bystanders.
STIHL does not recommend the use of
rigid blades when cutting in stony areas.
Use your trimmer / brushcutter equipped
with the appropriate cutting attachment
only for cutting grass and similar
material.
Warning!
Do not use it for other purposes, since
misuse may result in personal injury or
property damage, including damage to
the machine.
Warning!
Minors should never be allowed to use
this power tool. Bystanders, especially
children, and animals should not be
allowed in the area where it is in use.
Warning!
To reduce the risk of injury to bystand-
ers and damage to property, never let
your power tool run unattended. When it
is not in use (e.g. during a work break),
shut it off and make sure that unauthor-
ized persons do not use it.
Most of these safety precautions and
warnings apply to the use of all STIHL
trimmer / brushcutters. Different models
may have different parts and controls.
See the appropriate section of your
instruction manual for a description of
the controls and the function of the parts
of your model.
Safe use of a trimmer / brushcutter
involves
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