Safety
Understanding The Machine Safety Labels
The machine safety labels shown in this section are placed in important areas on your machine to draw attention to potential safety hazards.
On your machine safety labels, the words DANGER, WARNING, and CAUTION are used with this safety-alert symbol. DANGER identifies the most serious hazards.
The operator’s manual also explains any potential safety hazards whenever necessary in special safety messages that are identified with the word, CAUTION, and the safety-alert symbol.
WARNING: Rotating Blade-Thrown Objects
Operate blower with entire grass catcher secured in place.
Operating Safely
• Read the machine and attachment operator’s manual carefully. Be thoroughly familiar with the controls and the proper use of the equipment. Know how to stop the machine and disengage the controls quickly.
• Do not let children or an untrained person operate machine.
• Never operate the machine without proper guards or other safety devices in place.
• Disengage all clutches and shift into neutral before starting the engine.
• Inspect machine before you operate and at frequent intervals while operating. Be sure hardware is tight. Repair or replace damaged badly worn, or missing parts.
• Make any necessary adjustments before you operate. Never attempt to make any adjustments while the engine is running, unless if recommended in adjustment procedure.
• Take all possible precautions when leaving the machine unattended. Shut off the engine before unplugging the attachment, or when making any repairs, adjustments, or inspections. Disengage the PTO, lower the attachment, lock the parking brake, stop the engine, and remove the key.
• Only operate during daylight or with good artificial light.
• Look behind machine before you back up. Back up carefully.
• Do not let anyone, especially children, ride on machine or attachment. Riders are subject to injury such as being struck by foreign objects and being thrown off. Riders may also obstruct the operator’s view, resulting in the machine being operated in an unsafe manner.
• Do not operate machine when you are tired or ill or under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
• Never operate the machine at high transport speeds on slippery surfaces.
• Use only attachments and accessories approved by the manufacturer of this product.
• After striking a foreign object, stop the engine, remove the spark plug wire, thoroughly inspect the machine for any damage, and repair the damage before starting and operating the machine.
• Use extreme caution when operating on or near gravel drives, walks, or roads. Stay alert for hidden hazards or traffic.
• If the machine vibrates abnormally, stop the engine and check immediately for the cause. Vibration is generally a warning of trouble.
• Disengage any power to the attachment when the machine is transported or not in use.
• Do not wear radio or music headphones while operating the machine. Safe operation requires your full attention.
• Always refer to the Storage section of the operator’s manual for important details if storing this product for a long period of time.
Parking Safely
1. Stop machine on a level surface, not on a slope.
2. Disengage mower blades or any other attachments.
3. Lower attachments to the ground.
7. Wait for engine and all moving parts to stop before you leave the operator’s seat.
8. Close fuel shut-off valve, if your machine is equipped.
9. Disconnect the negative battery cable or remove the spark plug wire (for gasoline engines) before servicing the machine.
Avoid Injury From Rotating Blades
• Do not put hands or feet near blower assembly when engine is running.
• Stop engine before you unplug the blower assembly.
• Do not operate the blower assembly unless entire grass catcher is fastened in place with hopper cover latched in the CLOSED position or the MCS is returned to the operating position.
Practice Safe Maintenance
• Only qualified, trained adults should service this machine.
• Understand service procedure before doing work. Keep area clean and dry.
• Do not operate the engine in a confined space where dangerous carbon monoxide fumes can collect.
• Never lubricate, service or adjust the machine or attachment while it is moving. Keep safety devices in place and in working condition. Keep hardware tight.
• Keep hands, feet, clothing, jewelry, and long hair away from any moving parts, to prevent them from getting caught.
• Lower any attachment completely to the ground or to an existing attachment mechanical stop before servicing the attachment. Disengage all power and stop the engine. Lock park brake and remove the key. Let machine cool.
• Disconnect battery or remove spark plug wire (for gasoline engines) before making any repairs.
• Before servicing attachment, carefully release pressure from any components with stored energy, such as hydraulic components and springs.
• Securely support any machine or attachment elements that must be raised for service work. Use jack stands or lock service latches to support components when needed.
• Never run engine unless park brake is locked.
• Keep all parts in good condition and properly installed. Fix damage immediately. Replace worn or broken parts. Replace all worn or damaged safety and instruction decals.
• Check all hardware, including shear bolts, at frequent intervals to be sure the equipment is in safe working condition.
• Do not modify machine or safety devices. Unauthorized modifications to the machine or attachment may impair its function and safety.
Wear Appropriate Clothing
• Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side shields when operating the machine.
• Wear close fitting clothing and safety equipment appropriate for the job.
• While mowing, always wear substantial footwear and long trousers. Do not operate the equipment when barefoot or wearing open sandals.
• Wear a suitable protective device such as earplugs. Loud noise can cause impairment or loss of hearing.