Working With Your Machine - Stihl MH 445 Instruction Manual

models MH 445 and MH 445 R, the
working width is increased using additional
hoes (STIHL accessories), the larger
impact protectors (supplied in the scope of
delivery of the accessories) must also be
installed.
Push or pull the machine to the area to be
worked with the aid of the transport
wheels.
Before operating, remove any foreign
objects (tools, cloths, etc.) placed on the
machine.

4.6 Working with your machine

Keep other persons out of the
danger area. Never work when
animals or persons, particularly
children, are in the danger area.
Caution: Objects such as soil, stones, etc.
can be thrown up or thrown out sideways
during working.
The machine may only be operated by one
person. The operator must stay within the
working area when the engine is running.
( 10.1)
During operation, the machine must not be
lifted, pushed or pulled at the transport
handle, guard plate or at other machine
parts except for the handles of the
handlebar – and especially not by a
second person.
The switch and safety devices installed in
the machine must not be removed or
bypassed. In particular, never secure the
self-propulsion lever to the upper
handlebar (e.g. by tying it).
Caution – risk of injury!
Never put hands or feet on or
underneath rotating parts.
Always observe the safety
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distance provided by the handlebar. This
safety distance corresponds to the length
of the properly installed and folded-out
handlebar. Do not modify the handlebar
and never operate the machine with the
handlebar folded down.
Never attach any objects to the handlebar
(e.g. work clothing).
Only work during the day or with good
artificial light.
Do not operate the machine in the rain or
during thunder storms, particularly when
there is a risk of lightning strike.
The risk of accidents is higher if the ground
is damp due to increased danger of
slipping.
Particular caution should be exercised
during working in order to prevent slipping.
If possible, avoid using the machine when
the ground is damp.
Do not operate the machine on tarmac or
paved areas, etc. with the hoes attached.
Use the machine with great care when
working near slopes, terraces, ditches and
embankments. In particular, ensure that
you maintain sufficient distance to such
danger areas.
Exhaust gases:
Danger to life through poisoning!
In the case of nausea, headache,
impaired vision (e.g. decreasing
field of view) hearing disorder,
dizziness, decreasing power of
concentration, stop working
immediately. These symptoms may
be caused by excessively high
exhaust gas concentrations.
The machine generates
poisonous exhaust gases when
the engine is running. The
gases contain poisonous carbon
monoxide, a colourless and odourless gas,
as well as other pollutants. The engine
must never be operated in closed or poorly
ventilated spaces.
Observe discharge direction of exhaust
gases. Never point the exhaust towards
persons.
Starting:
Exercise care when starting the machine
and observe the instructions contained in
the section entitled "Operating the
machine" ( 11.). Starting the machine in
accordance with these instructions
reduces the risk of injury.
Risk of injury!
If the starter rope recoils at speed, the
hand and arm will be pulled towards the
engine faster than the starter rope can be
released. This kickback can result in
broken bones, crush injuries and sprains.
Ensure that you keep your feet far enough
away from the work tools.
The machine must not be tilted during
start-up.
The self-propulsion levers must not be
pressed when starting.
Working on slopes:
Always work across and back on slopes,
never up and down.
The operator must never stand below the
running machine on a slope. If the user
loses control, there is a risk of being run
over by the machine.
Be particularly careful when changing
direction on a slope.
Always ensure good stability on slopes
and avoid mowing on excessively steep
slopes.
0478 403 9802 B - EN