Stiga 8211-0209-13 - Manual (Page 6)

74
ANSI B71.1-2003
1 IMPORTANT
Safe Practice for Ride-On Mowers
(ANSI B71.1 - 2003)
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.
1.1 General operation
1. Read, understand, and follow all instructions
on the machine and the manual(s) before
starting.
2. Do not put hands or feet near the rotationg parts
or under the machine. Keep clear of the
discharge opening at all times.
3. Only allow responsible adults, who are familiar
with the instructions, to operate this machine.
4. Clear the area of objects such as rocks, wire,
toys, etc., wich could be thrown by the
blade(s).
5. Be sure the area is clear of bystanders before
operating. Stop the machine if anyone enters
the area.
6. Never carry passengers.
7. Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely
necessary. Always look down and behind
before and while backing.
8. Never direct discharge material toward anyone.
Avoid discharging material against a wall or
obstruction. Material may rocochet back
toward the operator. Stop the blade(s) when
crossing gravel surfaces.
9. Do not operate machine without the entire
grass catcher, discharge guard, or other safety
devices in place and working.
10. Slow down before turning.
11. Never leave a running machine unattended.
Always turn off blade(s), set parking brake,
stop engine and remove key before
dismounting.
12. Disengage blade(s) when not mowing. Shut off
engine and wait for all parts to come to a
complete stop before cleaning the machine,
removing the grass catcher, or unclogging the
discharge guard.
13. Operate machine only in daylight or good
artificial light.
14. Do not operate machine while under the
influence of alcohol or drugs.
15. Watch for traffic when operating near or
crossing roadways.
16. Use extra care when loading or unloading the
machine into a trailer or truck.
17. Always wear eye protection when operating
the machine.
18. Data indicates operators 60 years and above are
involved in a large percentage of riding mower-
related injuries. These operators should
evaluate their ability to operate the riding
mower safely enough to protect themselves
and others from serious injury.
19. Follow the manufacturer´s recommendation
for wheel weights or counterweights.
1.2 Slope operation
Slopes are a major factor related to loss of control
and tip-over accidents, wich can result in severe
injury or death. Operation on all slopes requires
extra caution. If you cannot back up the slope or if
you feel uneasy on it, do not mow it.
1. Mow up and down slopes, not across.
2. Watch for holes, ruts, bumps, rocks, or other
hidden objects. Uneven terrain could overturn
the machine. Tall grass can hide obstacles.
3. Choose a low ground speed so you will not
have to stop or shift while on a slope.
4. Do not mow on wet grass. Tires may lose
traction.
5. Always keep the machine in gear when going
down slopes. Do not shift to neutral and coast
downhill.
6. Avoid starting, stopping, or turning an a slope.
If the tires lose traction, disengage the blade(s)
and proceed slowly straight down the slope.
7. Keep all movement on slopes slow and
gradual. Do not make sudden changes in speed
or direction, wich could cause the machine to
roll over.
8. Use extra care while operating machine with
grass catchers or other attachments; they can
affect the stability of the machine. Do not use
on steep slopes.
9. Do not try to stabilize the machine by putting
your foot in the ground.
10. Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches or
embankments. The machine could suddenly
roll over if a wheel goes over the edge or if the
edge caves in.
1.3 Children
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not
alert to the presence of children. Children are often
attracted to the machine and mowing activity.
Never assume that children will remain where you
last saw them.
1. Keep children out of the mowing area and in
the watchful care of a responsible adult other
than the operator.
2. Be alert and turn machine off if a child enters
the area.