Stihl HL-KM Instruction Manual page 3

3 Safety Precautions and Working Techniques
are specifically designed to match the product
and meet your performance requirements.
Never attempt to modify your machine in any
way since this may increase the risk of personal
injury. STIHL excludes all liability for personal
injury and damage to property caused while
using unauthorized attachments.
Do not use a pressure washer to clean your
power tool. The solid jet of water may damage
parts of the power tool.
3.1 Clothing and Equipment
Wear proper protective clothing and equipment.
Clothing must be sturdy but allow
complete freedom of movement.
Wear snug-fitting clothing, an overall
and jacket combination, do not wear
a work coat.
Avoid clothing that could get caught on branches
or brush or moving parts of the machine. Do not
wear a scarf, necktie or jewelry. Tie up long hair
so that it is above shoulder level.
Wear steel-toed safety boots with
non-slip soles.
WARNING
To reduce the risk of eye injuries,
wear close-fitting safety glasses in
accordance with European Standard
EN 166. Make sure the safety
glasses are a comfortable and snug
fit.
Wear hearing protection, e.g. earplugs or ear
muffs.
Wear a safety hard hat with chin strap where
there is a danger of head injuries from falling
objects.
Wear heavy-duty work gloves made
of durable material (e.g. leather).
STIHL offers a comprehensive range of personal
protective clothing and equipment.
3.2 Transporting the Power Tool
Always shut off the engine.
Always fit the blade guard (scabbard) – even
when you carry the unit for short distances.
On units with adjustable cutter bar: Engage the
cutter bar in position.
0458-475-0121-E
On units with a defined transport position: Move
the cutter bar to the transport position and make
sure it is properly engaged.
Carry the power tool properly balanced by the
drive tube – cutting blades behind you.
To reduce the risk of serious burn injuries, avoid
touching hot parts of the machine, including the
gearbox housing.
Transporting by vehicle: Properly secure your
power tool to prevent turnover, fuel spillage and
damage.
3.3 Before Starting
Check that your power tool is properly assem‐
bled and in good condition – refer to appropriate
chapters in the KombiMotor and KombiTool
instruction manuals.
– Cutting blades: Correctly assembled, securely
mounted and in good condition (clean, move
freely, not warped), properly sharpened and
sprayed thoroughly with STIHL resin solvent
(lubricant).
– On units with adjustable cutter bar: Make sure
the adjuster is properly engaged in the
required position for starting.
– On units with a defined transport position (cut‐
ter bar folded against drive tube): Never
attempt to start the unit in the transport posi‐
tion.
– Never attempt to modify the controls or safety
devices in any way.
– Keep the handles dry and clean – free from oil
and dirt – for safe control of the power tool.
– Adjust shoulder strap and handles to suit your
height and reach. See chapter on "Fitting the
Harness".
To reduce the risk of accidents, operate your
power tool only if it is in a safe condition.
If you use a shoulder strap or full harness: Prac‐
tice removing and putting down the machine as
you would in an emergency. To avoid damage,
do not throw the machine to the ground when
practicing.
3.4 Holding and Controlling the
Power Tool
Always hold the power tool firmly with both
hands on the handles.
Make sure you have firm and secure footing and
hold the power tool so that the cutting blades are
always away from your body.
English
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