Operating Safely

MXAL42879-UN-26MAR13

This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death.

• Read, understand and follow all instructions on the machine and in manuals provided, and view safety video, before starting. Be thoroughly familiar with the controls and the proper use of the machine before starting.
• The residential zero radius lawn mower drives differently than a traditional riding mower. Learning to operate the controls smoothly and safely will take some time.
• Practice operating the residential zero radius lawn mower in a large open area with the blades off. Keep practicing until you feel confident in your maneuvering and driving skills.
• Only allow responsible adults, who have practiced driving the residential zero radius lawn mower and are familiar with the instructions to operate the machine. Local restrictions may restrict the age of the operator.
• Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or under the machine. Keep clear of the discharge opening at all times.
• Clear the area of objects such as rocks, wire and toys which could be thrown by the blades.
• Be sure the area is clear of bystanders before operating. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.
• Never carry passengers.
• Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary. Always look down and behind before and while backing.
• Never direct discharged material toward anyone. Avoid discharging material against a wall or obstruction. Material may ricochet back toward the operator. Stop the blades when crossing gravel surfaces.
• Do not operate the machine without the entire grasscatcher, discharge guard, or other safety devices in place and working. Never operate with the discharge deflector raised, removed, or altered, unless using a grasscatcher.
• Slow down before turning.
• Never leave a running machine unattended. Always turn off blades, lock park brake, stop engine and remove key before dismounting.
• Disengage blades when not mowing. Shut off engine and wait for all parts to come to a complete stop before cleaning the machine, removing the grasscatcher, or unclogging the discharge chute.
• Operate machine only in daylight or good artificial light.
• Do not operate the machine while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Watch for traffic when operating near or crossing roadways. Stop blades before crossing roads or sidewalks.
• Use extra care when loading or unloading the machine into a trailer or truck.
• Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side shields when operating machine.
• Data indicates operators 60 years and above are involved in a large percentage of riding mower-related injuries. These operators should evaluate their ability to operate the riding mower safely enough to protect themselves and others from serious injury.
• Follow the manufacturer’s recommendation for wheel weights or counterweights.
• Inspect machine before you operate. Be sure hardware is tight. Repair or replace damaged, badly worn, or missing parts. Be sure guards and shields are in good condition and fastened in place. Make any necessary adjustments before you operate.
• Before using, always visually inspect to see that the blades, blade bolts and the mower assembly are not worn and damaged. Replace worn and damaged blades and bolts in sets to preserve balance.
• Make sure spark plug, muffler, fuel cap and air cleaner are in place before starting the engine.
• Be sure all drives are in neutral and parking brake is locked before starting engine. Only start engine from the operator’s position.
• Do not change the engine governor settings or overspeed the engine. Operating the engine at excessive speed can increase the hazard of personal injury.
• If you hit an object or if abnormal vibration occurs, stop the machine and inspect it. Make repairs before you operate.
• Use only accessories and attachments approved by the manufacturer of the machine. Keep safety labels visible when installing accessories and attachments.
• Do not wear radio or music headphones. Safe service and operation requires your full attention.
• When machine is left unattended, stored, or parked, lower the mower deck unless a positive mechanical lock is used.