Safety Information; General Safety Rules - Ryobi PLT-3043YW Operation Manual

SAFETY
Thank you for buying a Ryobi trimmer.
Your new trimmer has been engineered and
manufactured to Ryobiʼs high standard for dependability,
ease of operation, and operator safety. Properly cared
for, it will give you years of rugged, trouble-free
performance.
WARNING
T o reduce the risk of injury, the user must read
and understand the operatorʼs manual.
WARNING
Do not attempt to operate this trimmer until you
have read thoroughly and understood completely
all instructions, safety rules etc contained in
this manual. Failure to comply may result in
accidents involving fire, electric shock or serious
personal injury. Save operatorʼs manual and
review frequently for continuing safe operation,
and instructing others who may use this tool.
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS.
GENERAL SAFETY RULES
For safe operation, read and understand all instructions
before using the trimmer. Follow all safety
instructions. Failure to follow all safety instructions listed
below, can result in serious personal injury.
Do not allow children or untrained individuals to use this
unit.
Never start or run the engine in a closed or poorly
ventilated area; breathing exhaust fumes can kill.
Clear the work area before each use. Remove all objects
such as rocks, broken glass, nails, wire, or string which
can be thrown or become entangled in the bump head.
Wear full eye and hearing protection while operating this
unit.
Wear heavy long pants, boots, and gloves. Do not wear
loose fitting clothing, short pants, jewellery of any kind,
or go barefoot.
Secure long hair so it is above shoulder level to prevent
entanglement in any moving parts.
Keep all bystanders, children, and pets at least 15 m
(50 ft.) away.
Do not operate this unit when you are tired, ill, or under
the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medication.
Do not operate in poor lighting.
Keep firm footing and balance. Do not overreach.
Overreaching can result in loss of balance or exposure
to hot surfaces.
Keep all parts of your body away from any moving part.
Do not touch area around the muffler or cylinder of the
trimmer, these parts get hot from operation.
Always stop the engine and remove the spark plug wire
before making any adjustments or repairs except for
carburetor adjustments.
Inspect the unit before each use for loose fasteners, fuel
leaks, etc. Replace any damaged parts before use.
The string head or blade will rotate during carburetor
adjustments.
It has been reported that vibrations from hand-held tools
may contribute to a condition called Raynaudʼs Syn-
drome in certain individuals. Symptoms may include
tingling, numbness and blanching of the fingers, usually
apparent upon exposure to cold. Hereditary factors,
exposure to cold and dampness, diet, smoking and work
practices are all thought to contribute to the develop-
ment of these symptoms. It is presently unknown what,
if any, vibrations or extent of exposure may contribute to
the condition. There are measures that can be taken by
the operator to possibly reduce the effects of vibration:
a) Keep your body warm in cold weather. When operat-
ing the unit wear gloves to keep the hands and wrists
warm. It is reported that cold weather is a major
factor contributing to Raynaudʼs Syndrome.
b) After each period of operation, exercise to increase
blood circulation.
c) Take frequent work breaks. Limit the amount of
exposure per day.
If you experience any of the symptoms of this condition,
immediately discontinue use and see your physician
about these symptoms.
Keep the tool well maintained, fasteners tightened
and worn parts replaced.
Mix and store fuel in a container approved for fuel.
Mix fuel outdoors where there are no sparks or flames.
Wipe up any fuel spillage. Move 9 m away from
refueling site before starting engine.
Stop the engine and allow to cool before refueling or
storing the unit.
Allow the engine to cool; empty the fuel tank and secure
the unit from moving before transporting in a vehicle.
SPECIFIC SAFETY RULES FOR TRIMMER USE
Replace bump head if cracked, chipped, or damaged in
anyway. Be sure the bump head is properly installed
and securely fastened. Failure to do so can cause serious
injury.
Make sure all guards, straps, deflectors and handles are
properly and securely attached.
Use only the manufacturer's replacement line in the
cutting head. Do not use any other cutting attachment.
Never operate unit without the safety guard in place
and in good condition.
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