Kubota Z411-AU Operator's Manual page 11

SAFE OPERATION
2. ROPS
• The ROPS is an integral and effective safety
device.
• KUBOTA recommends the use of a roll-over
protective structure (ROPS) and seat belt in almost
all applications. This combination will reduce the
risk of serious injury or death, should the machine
be upset.
• The machine is equipped with a foldable ROPS,
which may be temporarily folded down only when
absolutely necessary
constraints.
There is no operator protection provided by the
ROPS in the folded position. For operator safety the
ROPS must be placed in the upright and locked
position and the seat belt fastened for all other
operations.
• Do not remove the ROPS.
• If the ROPS is loosened or removed for any reason,
make sure that all parts are reinstalled correctly
before operating the machine.
• Never modify or repair a ROPS because welding,
bending, drilling, grinding, or cutting may weaken
the structure.
• If any structural member of the ROPS is damaged,
replace the entire structure at your local KUBOTA
Dealer. Any alterations to a ROPS must be
approved by the manufacturer.
• Check the area to be mowed and never fold down a
folding ROPS in areas where there are slopes,
drop-offs or water.
• Check carefully for overhead clearances (such as
branches, doorways and electrical wires) before
driving under any objects and do not contact them.
• Keep the ROPS in safe operating condition by
periodically and thoroughly inspecting for damage
and keeping all mounting fasteners tight.
• Always use the seat belt if the machine has a
ROPS. Check the seat belt regularly and replace if
frayed or damaged. Be certain that the seat belt
can be released quickly in the event of an
emergency.
(1) ROPS
6
for areas with height
(2) Seat belt
OPERATING THE MACHINE
1. Starting to operate the machine
• Always sit in the operator's seat when starting the
engine or operating levers or controls.
• Before starting the engine make sure that the
motion control levers are in neutral lock, the parking
brake is applied, and the power take-off (PTO) is
disengaged (OFF).
• Do not start the engine by shorting across starter
terminals. The machine may start in gear and move
if the normal starting circuitry is bypassed.
• Do not operate or idle the engine in a non-
ventilated area. Carbon monoxide gas is colorless,
odorless, and deadly.
• Do not start the engine when the front or rear tires
are not on the ground.
• Check before each use that the operator presence
control (OPC) system is functioning correctly.
Test the safety systems.
(See 1. Checking the engine start system on page
55 and 2. Checking the OPC system on page
56.)
Do not operate unless they are functioning
correctly.
2. Working the machine
• Do not turn sharply when driving at high speed.
• To avoid tip-over accidents, slow down when
turning on uneven terrain or before stopping.
• Do not operate near ditches, holes, embankments,
or other terrain, which may collapse under the
machine's weight. The risk of machine tip-overs
increases when the ground is loose or wet.
• Park the machine on a firm and level surface.
• Watch where you are going at all times. Watch for
and avoid obstacles. Be alert at curbs, near trees,
and other obstructions and hidden hazards.
• Know what is behind you before backing up. Look
to the rear before and when backing. Do not mow
while in reverse. Operate in reverse with the blades
engaged only when absolutely necessary and make
sure the area immediately behind you is clear of
obstructions or holes, and small children. Use extra
caution when the machine is equipped with a grass
catcher as your view to the rear is restricted.
• When working in groups, always let others know
what you are doing ahead of time.
• Do not drive the machine on streets or highways.
Watch for traffic when you cross roads or operate
near roads.
• Be aware of the mower discharge direction and do
not point it at anyone.
Never operate with the discharge chute raised,
removed or altered, unless using a grass catcher.
Z411-AU, Z421-AU