– control of a ride-on machine sliding on a slope will
not be regained by the application of the brake. The
main reasons for loss of control are:
◊ insufficient wheel grip;
◊ being driven too fast;
◊ inadequate braking;
◊ the type of machine is unsuitable for its task;
◊ lack of awareness of the effect of ground
conditions, especially slopes;
•
The owner/user can prevent and is responsible for
accidents or injuries occurring to people or damage to
property.
Preparation
•
While mowing, always wear substantial, slip-resistant
footwear, long pants, safety glasses, and ear protection.
Tie back long hair and do not wear jewelry.
•
Thoroughly inspect the area where the equipment is to
be used and remove all objects which may be thrown by
the machine.
•
Replace damaged or worn silencers/mufflers.
•
Only use accessories and attachments approved by the
manufacturer.
•
Before using, always visually inspect to see that the
cutting units are not worn or damaged. Replace worn or
damaged blades.
•
Take care rotating 1 cutting unit may cause other cutting
units to rotate.
•
Check that the operator's presence controls, safety
switches, and shields are attached and functioning
properly. Do not operate unless they are functioning
properly.
Operation
•
Do not operate the engine in a confined space where
dangerous carbon monoxide and other exhaust gasses
can collect.
•
Mow only in daylight or in good artificial light.
•
Before attempting to start the engine, engage the parking
brake, disengage the cutting unit drive system, and ensure
that the forward/reverse speed controls are in the neutral
positon.
•
Machine speeds should be kept low.
•
Do not turn sharply. Use care when reversing.
•
Stay alert for holes in the terrain and other hidden hazards.
•
Watch out for traffic when crossing or near roadways.
•
Stop the blades rotating before crossing surfaces other
than grass.
•
When using any attachments, never direct discharge of
material toward bystanders nor allow anyone near the
machine while in operation.
•
Never operate the machine with damaged guards, shields,
or without safety protective devices in place. Be sure all
interlocks are attached, adjusted properly, and functioning
properly.
•
Do not change the engine governor settings or over-speed
the engine. Operating the engine at excessive speed may
increase the hazard of personal injury.
•
Before leaving the operator's position:
– Park the machine on a level surface.
– Disengage the drive to the cutting units.
– Raise the cutting units to the transport position and
securely lock the safety latches or alternatively lower
the cutting units to the ground.
– Ensure that the transmission is in neutral and engage
the parking brake.
– Shut off the engine and remove the key.
•
When transporting the mower:
– Disengage the drive to the cutting units.
– Raise the cutting units to the transport position.
– Engage the parking brake.
– Engage the transport latches and safety locking rings.
– Shut off the engine and remove the key.
•
When driving the mower between work sites it is
important to ensure that the cutting units cannot be
inadvertently lowered and started:
– Disengage the drive to the cutting units.
– Raise the cutting units to the transport position.
– Engage the transport latches and safety locking rings.
•
Shut off the engine and disengage drive to the cutting
units:
– before refuelling;
– before making height adjustment unless adjustment
can be made from the operator's position.
– before clearing blockages;
– before checking, cleaning or working on the mower;
– after striking a foreign object or if an abnormal
vibration occurs. Inspect the mower for damage
and make repairs before restarting and operating the
equipment.
•
Keep hands and feet away from the cutting units.
•
Look behind and down before backing up to be sure of
a clear path.
•
Slow down and use caution when making turns and
crossing roads and sidewalks. Stop the cutting units if
not mowing.
•
Do not operate the mower when tired, ill, or under the
influence of alcohol or drugs.
•
Lightning can cause severe injury or death. If lightning is
seen in the area, do not operate the machine; seek shelter.
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