Echo HEDGE TRIMMERS SAFETY MANUAL - Manual (Page 10)

10
Repetitive Stress Injuries (RSI)
Overuse of the muscles and tendons of the fingers hands, arms, and shoulders may cause
soreness, swelling, numbness, weakness, and pain in these areas. Repetitive hand/wrist
movement can put you at high risk for developing a Repetitive Stress Injury (RSI), such as
Carpel Tunnel Syndrome (CTS). Carpal Tunnel Syndrome occurs when swelling in the wrist
puts pressure on a nerve, resulting in severe pain.
To protect yourself from these conditions, take the following precautions:
•
Avoid using your wrist in a bent or twisted position.
Try to maintain a straight wrist position.
•
Avoid using your thumb and index finger to grip
things - use your whole hand.
•
Take regular rest breaks.
•
Exercise and stretch to strengthen muscles and
maintain circulation.
•
Keep exposure to vibration at a minimum.
•
Reduce the speed and force of repetitive move-
ments.
•
If you experience tingling, numbness, or pain in the
fingers, hands, wrists, or arms, stop using the unit
immediately, and contact a doctor. Early diagnosis
of RSI can help prevent permanent nerve and
muscle damage.
ASSEMBLY
WARNING
Hedge clipper blades are extremely sharp. Acci-
dental hand or body contact with blades can result
in severe cuts, even if the engine is off and blades
are not moving. Always wear sturdy work gloves when
handling the hedge clipper, and do not allow blades to
touch any part of your body.
If your hedge clipper requires assembly before it can be
used, you must make sure all guards, shields, and
protective devices are properly installed. NEVER fuel,
start, or operate your unit without all guards and shields
in place, or without all protective devices such as throttle
lock-out levers working properly.
If parts are missing, or if you have a problem installing
parts, contact your Echo Dealer for assistance or call
Echo Consumer Product Support at 1-800-673-1558.
OPERATOR SAFETY