Echo SHC-225S - Manual (Page 7)

SHC-225/S SAFETY
X7502257105 7
© 03/2013 ECHO Inc.
Repetitive Stress Injuries
It is believed that overusing the muscles and tendons of the
fingers, hands, arms, and shoulders may cause soreness,
swelling, numbness, weakness, and extreme pain in those
areas. Certain repetitive hand activities may put you at a high
risk for developing a Repetitive Stress Injury (RSI). An extreme
RSI condition is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS), which could
occur when your wrist swells and squeezes a vital nerve that
runs through the area. Some believe that prolonged exposure to
vibration may contribute to CTS. CTS can cause severe pain for
months or even years.
To reduce the risk of RSI/CTS, do the following:
• Avoid using your wrist in a bent, extended, or twisted position. Instead try to maintain a straight wrist
position. Also, when grasping, use your whole hand, not just the thumb and index finger.
• Take periodic breaks to minimize repetition and rest your hands.
• Reduce the speed and force with which you do the repetitive movement.
• Do exercise to strengthen the hand and arm muscles.
• Immediately stop using all power equipment and consult a doctor if you feel tingling, numbness, or pain in
the fingers, hands, wrists, or arms. The sooner RSI/CTS is diagnosed, the more likely permanent nerve
and muscle damage can be prevented.
Do not operate this product indoors or in inadequately ventilated areas. Engine exhaust contains
poisonous emissions and can cause serious injury or death.
Read the Manuals
• Provide all users of this equipment with the Operator’s Manual and
Safety Manual for instructions on Safe Operation.
Clear the Work Area
• Spectators and fellow workers must be warned, and children and
animals prevented from coming nearer than 15 m (50 ft.) while the
unit is in use.
Keep a Firm Grip
• Hold the front and rear handles with thumbs and fingers encircling
the grips.
Keep a Solid Stance
• Maintain footing and balance at all times. Do not stand on slippery, uneven or unstable surfaces. Do not
work in odd positions or on ladders. Do not over reach.