Stihl TS 440 Instruction Manual page 5

A first-time operator should obtain
practical instruction before using the
machine. Employers should establish a
training program for operators of
gasoline-powered, hand-held, portable
cut-off machines to assure safe
operation of these machines and proper
choice of cutting attachments.
WARNING
Use your cut-off machine only for
authorized uses. For instance, it is not
suitable for cutting wood or plastic or
wooden or plastic objects. Unauthorized
uses may result in death, serious
personal injury or property damage,
including damage to the machine.
WARNING
Minors should never be allowed to use a
cut-off machine. Bystanders, especially
children, and animals should not be
allowed in the area where a cut-off
machine is in use. Never let the cut-off
machine run unattended.
See the appropriate section of your
instruction manual for a description of
the controls and function of the parts of
your cut-off machine.
Safe use of a cut-off machine involves
1. the operator
2. the power tool
3. the use of the power tool.
TS 440
THE OPERATOR
Physical Condition
You must be in good physical condition
and mental health and not under the
influence of any substance (drugs,
alcohol, etc.) which might impair vision,
dexterity or judgment. Do not operate a
cut-off machine when you are fatigued.
Be alert – if you get tired while operating
your cut-off machine, take a break;
fatigue may result in loss of control.
Working with any cut-off machine can be
strenuous. If you have any condition that
might be aggravated by strenuous work,
check with your doctor before operating
a cut-off machine.
WARNING
Prolonged use of cut-off machines (or
other machines) exposing the operator
to vibration may produce whitefinger
disease (Raynaud's phenomenon) or
carpal tunnel syndrome. These
conditions reduce the hand's ability to
feel and regulate temperature, produce
numbness and burning sensations and
can cause nerve and circulation damage
and tissue necrosis. All factors which
contribute to whitefinger disease are not
known, but cold weather, smoking and
diseases or physical conditions that
affect blood vessels and blood transport,
as well as high vibration levels and long
periods of exposure to vibration, are
frequently cited as factors in the
development of whitefinger disease. In
order to reduce the risk of whitefinger
disease and carpal tunnel syndrome,
please observe the following
precautions:
The TS 440 is equipped with an
–
anti-vibration ("AV") system
designed to reduce the
transmission of vibration created by
the machine to the operator's
hands.
Keep the AV system well
–
maintained and in good condition. A
cut-off machine with loose
components or with damaged or
worn AV elements will tend to have
higher vibration levels. Replace
immediately any part of the system
that is damaged or worn.
Wear gloves and keep your hands
–
warm.
Maintain a firm grip at all times, but
–
do not squeeze the handles with
constant, excessive pressure. Take
frequent breaks.
These precautions do not guarantee
that you will not sustain whitefinger
disease or carpal tunnel syndrome.
Therefore, continual and regular users
should monitor closely the condition of
their hands and fingers. If any of the
above symptoms appear, seek medical
advice immediately.
WARNING
The ignition system of your cut-off
machine produces a low intensity
magnetic field. This field may interfere
with some pacemakers. To reduce the
risk of serious or fatal injury, persons
with a pacemaker should consult their
physician and the pacemaker
manufacturer before operating this tool.
English
3