Troy-Bilt 13096 - Manual (Page 4)

Section 1
Safety
Important!
Safe Operating Practices for This Unit
A
This is a safety alert symboi. It is used in this manual and on decals on the unit to alert you to
potential hazards. Whenever you see this symboi, read and obey the safety message that follows it.
Failure to obey the safety message could result in personal injury or property damage.
INTRODUCTION
1. Unit is capable of amputating hands
and feet and throwing objects. Failure to
observe the following safety instructions
could result in serious injury or death.
2. Serious accidents which may cause
injury or property damage can occur if the
following safety guidelines are not
followed. Operator is solely responsible
for accidents or hazards that occur when
using unit. Preventing accidents is the
responsibility of every equipment
operator. Accidents can be prevented. Be
careful before, during and immediately
after use of any power equipment. The
following general safety precautions must
be fully understood and followed during
operation. Review these instructions
frequently and never take chances. If you
do not understand any part of this manual
or need assistance, contact your dealer or
our service department.
TRAINING
1. Read, understand and follow all
instructions in this manual and on unit
before starting. A replacement manual is
available from the factory. To order a
replacement manual, contact the
factory at the address indicated in this
manual. Provide the model/serial number
of unit when ordering.
2. Read and understand the owners
manual provided with each attachment
used with the unit.
3. Read the engine operation and
maintenance manual provided with the
unit before operation. Read and follow all
safety instructions provided in that
manual.
4. Only allow responsible adults, who are
familiar with the instructions, to operate
the unit.
5. Know the location and function of all
controls before operating unit. Know how
to stop engine and attachments quickly in
case of emergency. Familiarize yourself
with all safety and operation decals on the
unit and attachments. If these decals are
damaged or not legible, clean or replace
them as needed.
PREPARATION
1. Wear proper clothing when operating
unit. Always wear sturdy footwear
(preferably steel-toed shoes) and hearing
protection during operation.
a. Wear heavy leather gloves whenever
working near or servicing any cutting
edges on unit.
b. Do not wear loose-fitting clothing,
jewelry, scarves, ties, etc., which may
get caught in moving parts. Tie up or
restrain long hair.
c. Do not operate unit while barefoot.
Do not wear sandals.
d. Wear long trousers.
e. Wear hearing protection.
2. Do not operate unit when tired, ill or
under the influence of alcohol and/or other
drugs.
3. Be prepared for an emergency. Keep a
first aid kit and fire extinguisher handy.
Keep emergency telephone numbers for
ambulance, fire, hospital, doctor and
rescue near your telephone.
BEFORE OPERATION
1. Before each use, clear work area of
objects such as rocks, toys, wire, etc.,
which could be picked up and thrown by
mower blades.
2. Keep unit in safe operating condition.
Check the following each time before
starting unit:
a. All hardware for tightness (especially
blade mounting hardware—check for
proper torque specifications
frequently in this area-refer to
maintenance section of attachment
owners manual).
b. Brakes, steering and other major
controls for proper operation.