e) Do not overreach. Always keep proper footing and balance. This enables better control in unexpected
situations.
f) Dress properly. Do not wear loose clothing or jewellery. Keep your hair, clothing, and gloves away from
moving parts. Loose clothes, jewellery or long hair can be caught in moving parts.
TOOL USE AND CARE
a) Do not force the tool. Use the correct tool for your application. The correct tool will do the job better and
safer at the rate for which it was designed.
b) Store idle tools out of the reach of children and do not allow persons unfamiliar with the tool or these
instructions to operate. It can be dangerous in the hands of untrained users.
c) Maintain tools. Check for misalignment or binding of moving parts, breakage of parts and any other
condition that may affect the tool’s operation. If damaged, have the tool repaired before use.
d) Many accidents are caused by poorly maintained power tools.
e) Use the power tool, accessories, and tool bits etc. in accordance with these instructions, considering the
working conditions and the work to be performed. Use of the power tool for operations different from
those intended could result in a hazardous situation.
SAFE OPERATION PRACTICES
TRAINING
a) Read the instructions carefully. Be familiar with the controls and the correct use of the machine.
b) Never allow children or people unfamiliar with these instructions to use the machine. Local regulations
can restrict the age of the operator.
c) Keep in mind that the operator or user is responsible for accidents or hazards occurring to other people or
their property.
PREPARATION
d) Read the tow vehicle owner’s manual and vehicle safety rules to know how to operate the vehicle before
using this equipment.
e) Before use, always visually inspect the machine for damaged, missing, or misplaced guards or shields.
f) Never operate the machine while people, especially children, or pets are nearby.
g) Do not allow anyone to ride or sit on the dethatcher frame or on the towing vehicle.
OPERATION
f) Wear hard wearing gloves and stout shoes at all times while operating the machine.
g) Avoid using the machine in bad weather conditions.
h) Use the machine only in daylight or good artificial light.
i) Never operate the machine with damaged guards or shields or without guards or shields in place.
j) Switch on the tow vehicle engine only when hands and feet are away from a tow vehicle cutting means.
k) Take care against injury to feet and hands from the tow vehicles cutting means.
l) For ride on mowers, go up and down (NOT side to side). This gives maximum traction to the drive wheels
and lessens the risk of rolling. It also avoids the ‘crabbing’ that tends to happen when mowing crossways
on any slope, where the heavy end of the machine keeps trying to slide downhill making slope use
difficult. This equipment should be operated at reduced speed on rough terrain, along creeks and ditches
and on hillsides, to prevent tipping and loss of control. Do not drive too close to a creek or a ditch. Do not
tow this equipment on a highway or any other public thoroughfare. Always begin with the transmission in
first (low) gear & the engine at low speed. Gradually increase the speed as conditions permit. The vehicle
braking and stability may be affected with the dethatcher attached. Be aware of changing conditions on
slopes. Refer to safety rules in the vehicle owner's manual, concerning safe operation on slopes.
MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE
m) Disconnect the machine from the tow vehicle before carrying out maintenance or cleaning work.
n) Clean the machine immediately after use. Keep the machine clean to ensure it operates to its full & safest
performance.
o) Use only the manufacturer’s recommended replacement parts and accessories.
p) Inspect and maintain the machine regularly. Have the machine repaired only by an authorised repairer.
q) When not in use, the machine should be stored in a dry location, out of direct sunlight. Keep the machine
away from children & others not qualified.
