Safety Rules And Precautions - Makita RBC220 Instruction Manual

Thank you very much for your patronage in purchasing your MAKITA STRING TRIMMER. We are
proud of and very confident in recommending our MAKITA STRING TRIMMER as a result of our
long development and ample knowledge and experience.
This booklet refers to the information which you should learn in order to take advantage of its
outstanding performance.
We wish for you to gain sufficient knowledge from this booklet before operating your MAKITA STRING
TRIMMER and make the best use of it in the future. Basically, STRING TRIMMERS are designed
for trimming grass, weeds and low growth, non-wood ground cover. Always use the proper machine
for the job.
SAFETY RULES AND PRECAUTIONS
Proper safety precautions must be observed. Like all power equipment this unit must be handled
carefully. DO NOT EXPOSE YOURSELF OR OTHERS TO DANGER. Follow these general rules. Do
not permit others to use this machine unless they are thoroughly responsible and have read, and
understand the machine manual and are trained in its operation.
1. Always wear safety goggles for eye protection. Dress properly, do not wear loose clothing or jewelry
that could become caught in moving parts of the unit. Safe, sturdy, nonskid footwear should always
be worn. Long hair should be tied back. It is recommended that legs and feet be covered to protect
from flying debris during operation.
2. Inspect the entire machine for loose parts (nuts, bolts, screws, etc.) and any damage. Repair or
replace as necessary before using the machine.
3. DO NOT USE any attachment with this power head other than those recommended by the manufac¬
turer of the engine. Serious injury to the user or bystanders or damage to the engine could result.
4. Keep the handles free of oil and fuel.
5. Always use the proper handle and shoulder strap when cutting.
6. Do not smoke while mixing fuel or filling tank.
7. Do not mix fuel in an enclosed room or near open flames. Assure adequate ventilation.
8. Always mix and store the fuel in a properly marked container that is approved by local codes and
ordinances for such usage.
9. Never remove the fuel tank cap while the engine is running.
10. Never start or run the engine inside a closed room or building. Fumes from the exhaust contain
dangerous carbon monoxide.
11. Never attempt to make engine adjustments while the unit is running and strapped to the operator.
Always make engine adjustments with the unit resting on a flat, clear surface.
12. Do not use the unit if it is damaged or poorly adjusted. Never remove the machine's guard.
13. Inspect the area to be cut and remove all debris that could become entangled in the nylon cutting
head. Also remove any objects that the unit may throw during cutting.
14. Keep children away. Onlookers should be kept at a safe distance from the work area, at least 30 feet.
15. Never leave the machine unattended.
16. Do not use this unit for any job other than those for which it is intended as described in this manual.
17. Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance at all times. Do not run unit while standing
on a ladder or any other unstable footing location.
18. Keep hands and feet clear of the nylon cutting head while unit is in use.
19. Do not use this type of machine for sweeping away debris.
20. Do not use the unit when you are tired or under the influence of medications, drugs or alcohol.
21. Use only nylon cutting head which is free of damage. If a stone or any other obstacle is hit, stop
the engine and check the nylon cutting head. A broken or unbalanced nylon cutting head must
never be used. Follow instruction for changing accessories.
22. Do not store in a closed area where fuel vapors can reach an open flame from hot water heaters,
furnaces, etc. Store in a locked, well ventilated area only.
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