14
OPERATIONAL SAFETY
z The use of this equipment is subject to certain hazards that cannot be pro-
tected against by the mechanical means or product design. All operators of
this equipment must read and understand this entire manual, paying particu-
lar attention to safety and operating instructions, prior to using. If there is
something in this manual you do not understand, ask your supervisor, or
your dealer, to explain it to you.
z Most accidents occur because of neglect or carelessness. Keep all help-
ers and bystanders at least several hundred feet from an operating rotary
mower. Only properly trained people should operate this machine.
z When machine is operated in populated areas where thrown objects could
injure persons or property, operation must be stopped when anyone
comes within several hundred feet.
z The majority of the accidents involve entanglement on the driveline, injury of
bystanders by the objects thrown by the rotating blades, and operators be-
ing knocked off the tractor by low hanging limbs and then being run over by
the mower. Accidents are most likely to occur with machines that are loaned
or rented to someone who has not read the owner’s manual and is not famil-
iar with a rotary mower.
z The rotary mower is designed for use only on tractors with 540-RPM power
take off.
z Install and secure all guards and shields before starting or operating. The
flaps, driveline guards and tractor shields should be used and maintained in
good working condition. They should be inspected carefully, at least daily,
for missing or broken chain links, shields, or guards. (Worn items must be
replaced at once to reduce possibility of injury)
z Disengage power takeoff (PTO) and place transmission in neutral before
attempting to start engine.
z Many varied objects, such as wire, cable, rope, or chains, can become en-
tangled in the operating parts of the mower. These items could then swing
outside the housing at greater velocities than the blades. Such a situation is
extremely hazardous. Inspect the cutting area for such objects before mow-
ing. Remove any like objects from the site.