Poulan PEM45N22S User Manual - Page 3

Safe Operation Practices for Pedestrian-Controlled Rotary Lawnmowers IMPORTANT: 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. I. Training • Read the instructions carefully. Be familiar with the controls and the proper use of the equipment. • Never allow children or people unfamiliar with the instructions to use the lawnmower. Local regulations may 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. II. 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 - Petrol is highly flammable. - Store fuel in containers specifically designed for this pur pose. - Refuel outdoors only and do not smoke while refueling. - Add fuel before starting the engine. Never remove the cap of the fuel tank or add petrol while the engine is running or when the engine is hot. - If petrol 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 petrol 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. III. Operation • 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. • Avoid operating the equipment in wet grass, where feasible. • Always be sure of your footing on slopes. • Walk, never run. • For wheeled rotary machines, mow across the face of slopes, never up and down. • Exercise extreme caution when changing direction on slopes. • Do not mow excessively steep slopes. • Use extreme caution when reversing or pulling the lawnmower towards you. • Stop the blade if the lawnmower has to be tilted for transportation when crossing surfaces other than grass, and when transporting the lawnmower to and from the area to be mowed. • Never operate the lawnmower with defective guards, or without safety devices, for example deflectors and/or grass catchers, in place. • Do not change the engine governor settings or overspeed the engine. Operating the engine at excessive speed may increase the hazard of personal injury. • Disengage all blade and drive clutches before starting the engine. • Start the engine or switch on the motor carefully according to instructions and with feet well away from the blade. • Do not tilt the lawnmower when starting the engine or switching on the motor, except if the lawnmower has to be tilted for starting. In this case, do not tilt more than absolutely necessary and lift only the part which is away from the operator. • Do not start the engine when standing in front of the discharge chute. • Do not put hands or feet near or under rotating parts. Keep clear of the discharge opening at all times. • Never pick up or carry lawnmower while the engine is running. • Stop the engine and disconnect the spark plug wire: - before cleaning blockages or unclogging chute; - before checking, cleaning or working on the lawnmower; - after striking a foreign object. Inspect the lawnmower for damage and make repairs before restarting and operating the lawnmower; - if the lawnmower starts to vibrate abnormally (check immediately). • Stop the engine: - whenever you leave the lawnmower; - before refuelling. • Reduce the throttle setting during engine shut down and, if the engine is provided with a shut-off valve, turn the fuel off at the conclusion of mowing. • Go slow when using a trailing seat. IV. Maintenance and Storage • Keep all nuts, bolts and screws tight to be sure the equipment is in safe working condition. • Never store the equipment with petrol in the tank inside a building where fumes may reach an open flame or spark. • Allow the engine to cool before storing in any enclosure. • To reduce the fire hazard, keep the engine, silencer, battery compartment and petrol storage area free of grass, leaves, or excessive grease. • Check the grass catcher frequently for wear or deterioration. • Replace worn or damaged parts for safety. • If the fuel tank has to be drained, this should be done outdoors. 3