2
Safety Instructions for
Walk-Behind Mowers
GENERAL OPERATION
1.
Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the
machine and in the manual(s) before starting.
2.
Do not put hands or feet near or under the machine.
Always stay clear of the discharge opening.
3.
Only allow responsible adults, who are familiar with the
instructions, to operate this machine.
4.
Clear the area of objects such as rocks, wire, toys, etc.,
which could be thrown by the blade. Stay behind the
handle when the engine (motor) is running.
5.
Be sure the area is clear of bystanders before
operating. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.
6.
Do not operate machine barefooted or while wearing
sandals. Always wear substantial footwear.
7.
Do not pull machine backward unless absolutely
necessary. Always look down and behind before and
while moving backward.
8.
Never directly discharged material toward anyone.
Avoid discharging material against a wall or obstruction.
Material may ricochet back toward the operator. Stop
the blade when crossing gravel surfaces.
9.
Do not operate machine without the entire grass
catcher, discharge guard, rear guard, or other safety
protective devices in place and working.
10.
Never leave a running machine unattended.
11.
Stop the engine (motor) and wait until the blade comes
to a complete stop before cleaning the machine,
removing grass catcher, or unclogging the discharge
guard.
12.
Operate machine only in daylight or good artificial light.
13.
Do not operate machine while under the influence of
alcohol or drugs.
14.
Never operate mower in wet grass. Always be sure of
your footing; walk; never run.
15.
Disengage the drive system, if so equipped, before
starting the engine (motor).
16.
If the machine should start to vibrate abnormally,
stop the engine (motor) and check for the cause
immediately. Vibration is generally a warning of trouble.
17.
Always wear eye protection when operating machine.
18.
See manufacturer’s instructions for proper operation
and installation of accessories. Only use accessories
approved by the manufacturer.
SLOPE OPERATION
Slopes are a major factor related to slip and fall accidents,
which can result in severe injury. Operation on all slopes
requires extra caution. If you feel uneasy on a slope, do not
mow it.
1.
Mow across the face of slopes; never up and down.
Exercise extreme caution when changing direction on
slope.
2.
Watch for holes, ruts, bumps, rocks, or other hidden
objects. These may cause an unexpected slip or fall.
3.
Do not mow on wet grass or excessively steep slopes.
Poor footing could cause a slip and fall accident.
4.
Do not mow near drop offs, ditches, or embankments.
You could lose your footing or balance.
CHILDREN
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the
presence of children. Children are often attracted to the
machine and the mowing activity. Never assume that children
will remain where you last saw them.
1.
Keep children out of the mowing area and under the
watchful care of a responsible adult other than the
operator.
2.
Be alert and turn mower off if a child enters the area.
3.
Never allow children to operate the machine.
4.
Use extra care when approaching blind corners,
shrubs, trees, or other objects that may block your view
of a child.
SERVICE
GENERAL SERVICE
1.
Keep all nuts and bolts tight.
2.
Never tamper with safety devices. Regularly check to
ensure they are in place and working properly.
3.
Keep the mower free from grass, leaves, or other debris
buildup.
4.
If you strike a foreign object, stop and inspect the
machine. Repair, if necessary, before starting.
5.
Never make any adjustments or repairs with the engine
(motor) running.
6.
Check the grass catcher components and the
discharge guard frequently and replace with
manufacturer’s recommended parts, when necessary.
7.
Mower blades are sharp. Wrap the blade or wear
gloves, and use extra caution when servicing them.
8.
Maintain or replace safety and instruction decals, as
necessary.
