Snapper 355Z Series Operator's Manual page 7

Important OperatorSafety Instructions(Continued)
Readthese safety rules and follow them closely. Failureto obey these rules could result in loss of control of unit,
severe personal injury or death to you, or bystanders, or damageto property or equipment.
This mowinq deckis capable of amputatinqhandsand feet and throwinqobjects. Thetriangle _ in text signifies
important cautions or warnings which must be followed.
GENERAL OPERATION
1. Read, understand, and follow all instructions in the
manual and on the unit before starting.
2. Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or under the
machine. Keepclear of the discharge opening at all
times.
3. Only allow responsible adults, who are familiar with the
instructions, to operatethe unit (local regulations can
restrict operator age).
4. Clearthe area of objects such as rocks, toys, wire, etc.,
which could be picked up and thrown by the blade(s).
5. Be sure the area is clear of other people before mowing.
Stop the unit if anyone enters the area.
6. Nevercarry passengers.
7. Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary.
Always look down and behind before and while travelling
in reverse.
8. Never direct discharge material toward anyone. Avoid
discharging material against a wall or obstruction.
Materia/may ricochet back toward the operator. Stop the
blade(s) when crossing gravel surfaces.
9. Do not operate the machine without the entire grass
catcher, discharge guard (deflector), or other safety
devices in place and operational.
10. Slow down before turning.
11. Never leavea running unit unattended.Always disengage
the blades (PTO),set parking brake, stop engine, and
remove keys before dismounting.
12. Disengageblades (PTO) when not mowing. Shut off
engine and wait for all parts to come to a complete stop
before cleaning the machine, removing the grass catcher,
or unclogging the discharge guard.
13. Operatethe machine only in daylight or good artificial
light.
14. Do not operate the unit while under the influence of
alcohol or drugs.
15 Watch for traffic when operating near or crossing
roadways.
16. Use extra care when loading or unloading the unit into a
trailer or truck.
17. Always wear eye protection when operating this unit.
18. Data indicates that operators, age 60 years and above,
are involved in a large percentage of power equipment-
related injuries. These operators should evaluatetheir
ability to operatethe equipment safely enough to protect
themselves and others from injury.
19. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for wheel
weights or counterweights.
20. Keep in mind the operator is responsible for accidents
occurring to other people or property.
21. All drivers should seek and obtain professional and
practical instruction.
22. Always wear substantial footwear and trousers. Never
operatewhen barefoot or wearing sandals.
23. Before using, always visually check that the bladesand
blade hardware are present, intact, and secure. Replace
worn or damagedparts.
24. Disengageattachments before: refueling, removing an
attachment, making adjustments (unless the adjustment
can be made from the operator's position).
25. When the machine is parked, stored, or left unattended,
lower the cutting means unless a positive mechanical
lock is used.
26. Before leavingthe operator's position for any reason,
engage the parking brake (if equipped), disengagethe
blades (PTO), stop the engine, andremove the key.
27. To reducefire hazard, keepthe unit free of grass, leaves,
& excess oil. Do not stop or park over dry leaves,grass,
or combustible materials.
28. It is a violation of California Public ResourceCode
Section 4442 to use or operatethe engine on or near any
forest-covered, brush-covered, or grass-covered land
unless the exhaust system is equipped with a spark
arrester meeting any applicable local or state laws. Other
states or federal areas may have similar laws.
29. OSHAregulations may require the use of hearing
protection when exposed to sound levels greater than 85
dBA for an 8 hour time period.
A CAUTION
O his machineproducessound levels in
excessof 85 dBAat the operator'sear and
cancause hearing loss throughextended
periodsof exposure.
Wear hearingprotectionwhen operatingthis
machine.
TRANSPORTING AND STORAGE
1. When transporting the unit on an open trailer, makesure
it is facing forward, in the direction of travel. If the unit
is facing backwards, wind lift could damagethe unit.
2. Always observe safe refueling and fuel handling practices
when refueling the unit after transportation or storage.
3. Neverstore the unit (with fuel) in an enclosed poorly
ventilated structure. Fuelvapors can travel to an ignition
source (such as a furnace, water heater, etc.) and cause
an explosion. Fuelvapor is also toxic to humans and
animals.
4. Always follow the engine manual instructions for
storage preparations before storing the unit for both
short and long term periods.
5. Always follow the engine manual instructions for proper
start-up procedures when returning the unit to service.
6. Never store the unit or fuel container inside where there
is an open flame or pilot light, such as in a water heater.
Allow unit to cool before storing.