Safety; Safe Operating Practices - Toro 74923TE Operator's Manual

Safety

This machine meets or exceeds European Standards in
effect at the time of production. However, improper use
or maintenance by the operator or owner can result in
injury. To reduce the potential for injury, comply with these
safety instructions and always pay attention to the safety
alert symbol, which means CAUTION, WARNING, or
DANGER-"personal safety instruction." Failure to comply
with the instruction may result in personal injury or death.

Safe Operating Practices

The following instructions are from the CEN standard EN
836:1997.
This product is capable of amputating hands and feet and
throwing objects. Always follow all safety instructions to
avoid serious injury or death.
Training
•
Read the instructions carefully. Be familiar with the
controls and the proper use of the equipment.
•
Never allow children or people unfamiliar with these
instructions to use the lawnmower. Local regulations can
restrict the age of the operator.
•
Never mow while people, especially children, or pets are
nearby.
•
Keep in mind that the operator or user is responsible for
accidents or hazards occurring to other people or their
property.
•
Do not carry passengers.
•
All drivers should seek and obtain professional and
practical instruction. Such instruction should emphasize:
– the need for care and concentration when working
with ride-on machines;
– control of a ride-on machine sliding on a slope will
not be regained by the application of the control
levers. The main reasons for loss of control are:
◊ insufficient wheel grip, especially on wet grass;
◊ being driven too fast;
◊ inadequate braking;
◊ the type of machine is unsuitable for its task;
◊ lack of awareness of the effect of ground
conditions, especially slopes;
◊ incorrect hitching and load distribution.
Preparation
•
While mowing, always wear substantial footwear and long
trousers. Do not operate the equipment when barefoot
or wearing open sandals.
•
Thoroughly inspect the area where the equipment is to
be used and remove all objects which may be thrown by
the machine.
•
Warning–Fuel is highly flammable.
– Store fuel in containers specifically designed for this
purpose.
– Refuel outdoors only and do not smoke while
refuelling.
– Add fuel before starting the engine. Never remove
the cap of the fuel tank or add fuel while the engine is
running or when the engine is hot.
– If fuel is spilled, do not attempt to start the engine
but move the machine away from the area of spillage
and avoid creating any source of ignition until fuel
vapors have dissipated.
– Replace all fuel tanks and container caps securely.
•
Replace faulty silencers.
•
Before using, always visually inspect to see that the blades,
blade bolts and cutter assembly are not worn or damaged.
Replace worn or damaged blades and bolts in sets to
preserve balance.
•
On multi-bladed machines, take care as rotating one blade
can cause other blades to rotate.
Operation
•
Lightning can cause severe injury or death. If lightning
is seen or thunder is heard in the area, do not operate
the machine; seek shelter.
•
Be alert, slow down and use caution when making turns.
Look behind and to the side before changing directions.
•
Do not operate the engine in a confined space where
dangerous carbon monoxide fumes can collect.
•
Mow only in daylight or in good artificial light.
•
Before attempting to start the engine, disengage all blade
attachment clutches and shift into neutral.
•
Do not use on slopes greater than 15 degrees.
•
Remember there is no such thing as a safe slope. Travel
on grass slopes requires particular care. To guard against
overturning:
– - do not stop or start suddenly when on a slope;
– - use slow speeds on slopes and during tight turns;
– - stay alert for humps and hollows and other hidden
hazards;
•
Use care when pulling loads or using heavy equipment.
– - Use only approved drawbar hitch points.
– - Limit loads to those you can safely control.
– - Do not turn sharply. Use care when reversing.
•
Watch out for traffic when crossing or near roadways.
•
Stop the blades rotating before crossing surfaces other
than grass.
•
When using any attachments, never direct discharge of
material toward bystanders nor allow anyone near the
machine while in operation.
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