Safety; Safe Operating Practices - Toro 71197 Operator's Manual

Safety

This machine meets or exceeds the B71.1–1998
specifications of the American National Standards
Institute, in effect at the time of production.
However, improper use or maintenance by the
operator or owner can result in injury. To reduce
the potential for injury, comply with these safety
instructions and always pay attention to the safety
alert symbol, which means CAUTION,
WARNING, or DANGER—"personal safety
instruction." Failure to comply with the
instruction may result in personal injury or death.

Safe Operating Practices

The following instructions are from ANSI standard
B71.1—1998.
This product is capable of amputating hands and feet
and throwing objects. Always follow all safety
instructions to avoid serious injury or death.
General Operation
Read, understand, and follow all instructions in
the operator's manual and on the machine before
starting.
Allow only responsible adults who are familiar
with the instructions to operate the machine.
Clear the area of objects such as rocks, toys,
wire, etc., which could be picked up and thrown
by the blade.
Be sure the area is clear of other people before
mowing. Stop the machine if anyone enters the
area.
Never carry passengers.
Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely
necessary. Always look down and behind before
and while backing.
2
Be aware of the mower discharge direction and
do not point it at anyone. Do not operate the
mower without either the entire grass catcher or
the guard in place.
Slow down before turning.
Never leave a running machine unattended.
Always turn off blades, set parking brake, stop
engine, and remove keys before dismounting.
Turn off blades when not mowing.
Stop the engine before removing the grass
catcher or unclogging the chute.
Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.
Do not operate the machine while under the
influence of alcohol or drugs.
Watch for traffic when operating near or crossing
roadways.
Use extra care when loading or unloading the
machine into a trailer or truck.
Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses
with side shields when operating mower.
Data indicates that operators, age 60 years and
above, are involved in a large percentage of
riding mower–related injuries. These operators
should evaluate their ability to operate the riding
mower safely enough to protect themselves and
others from serious injury
.