Simplicity ZT4000 Series - Manual (Page 8)

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Read these safety rules and follow them closely. Failure to obey these rules could result in loss of control of unit,
severe personal injury or death to you, or bystanders, or damage to property or equipment. This mowing deck is
capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing objects. The triangle in text signifies important
cautions or warnings which must be followed.
Transporting and Storage
1. When transporting the unit on an open trailer, make sure
it is facing forward, in the direction of travel. If the unit
is facing backwards, wind lift could damage the unit.
2. Always observe safe refueling and fuel handling
practices when refueling the unit after transportation or
storage.
3. Never store the unit (with fuel) in an enclosed poorly
ventilated structure. Fuel vapors can travel to an ignition
source (such as a furnace, water heater, etc.) and cause
an explosion. Fuel vapor is also toxic to humans and
animals.
4. Always follow the engine manual instructions for
storage preparations before storing the unit for both
short and long term periods.
5. Always follow the engine manual instructions for proper
start-up procedures when returning the unit to service.
6. Never store the unit or fuel container inside where there
is an open flame or pilot light, such as in a water heater.
Allow unit to cool before storing.
Operator Safety
General Operation
1. Read, understand, and follow all instructions in the
manual and on the unit before starting.
2. Do not put hands or feet near rotating 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 the unit (local regulations can
restrict operator age).
4. Clear the area of objects such as rocks, toys, wire, etc.,
which could be picked up and thrown by the blade(s).
5. Be sure the area is clear of other people before mowing.
Stop the unit 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 travelling
in reverse.
8. Never direct discharge material toward anyone. Avoid
discharging material against a wall or obstruction.
Material may ricochet back toward the operator. Stop
the blade(s) when crossing gravel surfaces.
9. Do not operate the machine without the entire grass
catcher, discharge guard (deflector), or other safety
devices in place and operational.
10. Slow down before turning.
11. Never leave a running unit unattended. Always
disengage the blades (PTO), set parking brake, stop
engine, and remove keys before dismounting.
12. Disengage blades (PTO) 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 the machine only in daylight or good artificial
light.
14. Do not operate the unit 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 unit into a
trailer or truck.
17. Always wear eye protection when operating this unit.
18. Data indicates that operators, age 60 years and above,
are involved in a large percentage of power equipment-
related injuries. These operators should evaluate their
ability to operate the equipment safely enough to protect
themselves and others from injury.
19. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for wheel
weights or counterweights.
20. Keep in mind the operator is responsible for accidents
occurring to other people or property.
21. All drivers should seek and obtain professional and
practical instruction.
22. Always wear substantial footwear and trousers. Never
operate when barefoot or wearing sandals.
23. Before using, always visually check that the blades and
blade hardware are present, intact, and secure. Replace
worn or damaged parts.
24. Disengage attachments before: refueling, removing an
attachment, making adjustments (unless the adjustment
can be made from the operator’s position).
25. When the machine is parked, stored, or left unattended,
lower the cutting means unless a positive mechanical
lock is used.
26. Before leaving the operator’s position for any reason,
engage the parking brake (if equipped), disengage the
blades (PTO), stop the engine, and remove the key.
27. To reduce fire hazard, keep the unit free of grass, leaves,
& excess oil. Do not stop or park over dry leaves,
grass, or combustible materials.
28. OSHA regulations may require the use of hearing
protection when exposed to sound levels greater than 85
dBA for an 8 hour time period.
WARNING
Extended exposure to excessively high
sound levels can result in hearing loss.
This machine produces sound levels in excess of 85 dBA •
at the operator’s ear and can cause hearing loss through
extended periods of exposure.
Wear hearing protection when operating this machine.
•
WARNING
It is a violation of California Public Resource Code, Section
4442, to use or operate the engine on any forest-covered,
brush-covered, or grass-covered land unless the exhaust
system is equipped with a spark arrester, as defined in
Section 4442, maintained in effective working order. Other
states or federal jurisdictions may have similar laws.
Contact an Authorized Service Dealer to obtain a spark
arrester designed for the exhaust system installed on this
engine.