Stihl MS 441 C-Q MAGNUM Product Instruction Manual - Page 5

Safety Precautions and Working Techniques Because a chain saw is a high-speed, fast-cutting power tool, special safety precautions must be observed to reduce the risk of personal injury. It is important that you read, fully understand and observe the following safety precautions and warnings. Read the instruction manual and the safety precautions periodically. Careless or improper use may cause serious or fatal injury. WARNING Reactive forces, including kickback, can be dangerous. Pay special attention to the section on reactive forces. Have your STIHL dealer show you how to operate your power tool. All safety precautions that are generally observed when working with an axe or a hand saw also apply to the operation of chain saws. Observe all applicable federal, state and local safety regulations, standards and ordinances. When using a chain saw for logging purposes, for instance, refer to the OSHA regulations for "logging operations" at 29 Code of Federal Regulations 1910.266. WARNING Do not lend or rent your power tool without the instruction manual. Be sure that anyone using it understands the information contained in this manual. WARNING The use of this machine may be hazardous.The saw chain has many sharp cutters. If the cutters contact your flesh, they will cut you, even if the chain is not moving. Use your chain saw only for cutting wooden objects. WARNING Do not use it for other purposes, since misuse may result in personal injury or property damage, including damage to the machine. WARNING Minors should never be allowed to use this power tool. Bystanders, especially children, and animals should not be allowed in the area where it is in use. WARNING To reduce the risk of injury to bystanders and damage to property, never let your power tool run unattended. When it is not in use (e.g. during a work break), shut it off and make sure t Most of these safety precautions and warnings apply to the use of all STIHL chain saws. Different models may have different parts and controls. See the appropriate section of your instruction English manual for a description of the controls and the function of the parts of your model. Safe use of a chain saw involves 1 the operator 2 the saw 3 the use of the saw. THE OPERATOR Physical Condition 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 this machine when you are fatigued. WARNING Be alert - if you get tired, take a break. Tiredness may result in loss of control. Working with any power tool can be strenuous. If you have any condition that might be aggravated by strenuous work, check with your doctor before operating this machine. WARNING Prolonged use of a power tool (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. MS 441 C-M 3