Safe Practices for Pedestrian-Controlled and Ride-On Mowers
WARNING! This 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.
General information
• Read, understand, and follow instructions and
warnings in this document, the operator's manual
and on the machine, engine and attachments.
• Only allow operators, who are responsible, trained,
familiar with the instructions, and physically
capable to operate the machine.
• Do not carry passengers and keep bystanders
away.
• Do not operate the machine while under the
influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Follow the manufacturer's recommendation for
wheel weights or counterweights.
Preparation before operating
• Clear the operating area of any objects which could
be thrown by or interfere with operation of the
machine.
• Keep the area of operation clear of all bystanders,
particularly small children. Stop the machine and
attachment(s) if anyone enters the area.
• Do not operate the machine without the entire
grass catcher, discharge chute, or other safety
devices in place and functioning properly. Check
frequently for signs of wear or deterioration and
replace as needed.
• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment
such as safety glasses, hearing protection, and
footwear.
Operating
• Only operate the engine in well ventilated areas.
Exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide, a deadly
poison.
• Only operate the machine in daylight or good
artificial light.
• Avoid holes, ruts, bumps, rocks, or other hidden
hazards. Uneven terrain could overturn the
machine, or cause operator to lose their balance
or footing.
• Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or
under the machine. Keep clear of the discharge
opening at all times.
• Do not direct discharge material toward anyone.
Avoid discharging material against a wall or
obstruction. Material may ricochet back toward the
operator. Stop the blade(s) when crossing gravel
surfaces.
• Do not leave a running machine unattended.
Always park on level ground, disengage the
attachment, set parking brake, and stop engine.
• Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely
necessary. Always look down and behind before
and while backing.
Children specific
• Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not
alert to the presence of children. Children are often
a IMPORTANT
attracted to the machine and the mowing activity.
Never assume that children will remain where you
last saw them.
• Keep children out of the operating area and under
the watchful care of a responsible adult other than
the operator.
• Do not carry children, even with the blade(s)
shut off. Children could fall off and be seriously
injured or interfere with safe machine operation.
Children who have been given rides in the past
could suddenly appear in the mowing area for
another ride and be run over or backed over by the
machine.*
Slope specific
• Slopes are a major factor related to accidents.
Operation on slopes requires extra caution.
• Travel in the manufacturer recommended direction
on slopes. Use caution while operating near
dropoffs.
• Avoid mowing wet grass. (Poor footing could cause
a slip and fall accident.**)
• Do not operate machine under any condition where
traction, steering, or stability is in question. Tires
could slide even if the wheels are stopped.
• Always keep the machine in gear when going down
slopes. Do not coast downhill.
• Avoid starting and stopping on slopes. Avoid
making sudden changes in speed or direction.
Make turns slowly and gradually.
• Use extra care while operating machine with a
grass catcher or other attachment(s). They can
affect the stability of the machine.
Fire and fuel specific
• Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other
sources of ignition.
• Use only an approved fuel container.
• Do not remove fuel cap or add fuel with the engine
running or while hot.
• Do not refuel indoors or in enclosed spaces.
• Do not store the machine or fuel container, or
refuel, where there is an open flame, spark, or pilot
light such as on a water heater or other appliance.
• If fuel is spilled, do not attempt to start the engine
and avoid creating any source of ignition until fuel
vapors have dissipated.
• To help prevent fires: keep machine free of grass,
leaves, or other debris build up; clean up oil or fuel
spillage and remove any fuel soaked debris; allow
machine to cool before storing.
• Use extra care in handling gasoline and other fuels.
They are flammable and vapors are explosive.
Hauling
• Use full width ramps for loading and unloading a
machine for transport.
Towing*
• Follow the manufacturer's recommendation for
weight limits for towed equipment and towing on
slopes.*
ROPS*
• The ROPS is an integral and effective safety
device. Do not remove or alter the ROPS.*