Stihl BR 400 Instruction Manual - Page 5

The use of any blower may be dangerous. It is important that you read, fully understand and observe the following safety precautions and warnings. Reread the owner's manual and the safety instructions periodically. Careless or improper use of the machine may cause serious injury. Have your STIHL Dealer show you how to operate your blower. Observe all applicable local safety regulations, standards and ordinances. Minors should never be allowed to use a blower : Bystanders, especially children, and animals should not be allowed in the area where a machine is in use. Never let the unit run unattended. Do not lend or rent your machine without the owner's manual. Be sure that anyone using your unit understands the information contained in this manual. Most of these safety precautions and warnings apply to the use of all STIHL blowers. Different models may have different parts and controls. See the appropriate section of your owner's manual for a description of the controls and function of the parts of your machine. 1. the operator 2. the blower 3. the use of the blower . You must be in good physical condition and mental health and not under the influence of any substance (drugs, alcohol, etc.) which might impair vision, dexterity or judgment. Do not operate a blower when you are fatigued . Be alert - if you get tired while operating your machine, take a break. Tiredness may result in loss of control. Working with any blower can be strenuous. If you have any condition that might be aggravated by strenuous work, check with your doctor before operating the machine. Prolonged use of a blower, (or other machines) exposing the operator to vibrations may produce whitefinger disease (Raynaud's phenomenon) or carpal tunnel syndrome. These conditions reduce the hand's ability to feel and regulate temperature, produce numbness and burning sensations and may cause nerve and circulation damage and tissue necrosis. The STIHL BR 320, 400 is equipped with an antivibration system (AV). The AV system is designed to reduce the transmission of engine vibrations to the operator's hands. An AV system is recommended for those operators who use blowers on a regular or sustained basis. Antivibration systems do not guarantee that you will not sustain whitefinger disease or carpal tunnel syndrome. Therefore, continual and regular users should monitor closely the condition of their hands and fingers. If any of the above symptoms appear, seek medical advice immediately. Clothing must be sturdy and snug-fitting, but allow complete freedom of movement. Avoid loose-fitting jackets, flared or cuffed pants, scarfs, unconfined long hair or anything that could be drawn into the air intake. Wear overalls or long pants to protect your legs. Do not wear shorts. Use of gloves when working with the blower is recommended. Good footing is most important. Wear sturdy shoes with nonslip soles.