AKA WEED WACKER

Gas-powered string trimmers are commonly used to cut grass or light vegetation and to trim around buildings, trees, and areas that cannot be mowed with a regular mower.

Brush cutters are designed to cut heavier vegetation with thicker stalks.

SAFETY PROTECTION

• Clothing protects the operator from thrown objects and sun exposure. Wear long pants and close-fitting clothes appropriate for the job. Chain saw chaps may be necessary when using a brush cutter to protect the legs.

• Tie back long hair and avoid wearing anything that could become entangled in moving parts. Always wear sturdy shoes or boots with non-slip soles.

• Safety glasses or goggles protect the eyes from dust, dirt, debris, and small rocks thrown by the blade. Using a face shield in combination with glasses or goggles provides added protection.

• Earplugs or earmuffs protect hearing from engine and blade noise. Select equipment with anti-vibration features or wear gloves to reduce vibration exposure.

• Do not operate equipment under the influence of medication that may impair your ability to work safely.

• Operate the trimmer while standing upright, not bent over. Adjust the harness and hand grips for a comfortable working position.

• Protect your hands by wearing gloves when handling blades or other items that may be sharp, nicked, or have metal burrs.

• Always shut off the engine and disconnect the spark plug wire before making repairs or adjustments.

BEFORE OPERATING

• Read the operator’s manual to locate and understand all controls, as every trimmer is different. Review any additional safety instructions and know how to stop the machine quickly. Never allow untrained individuals to operate trimmers.

• Before trimming, walk the area and remove objects from the grass. Tools, cans, bottles, wire, rocks, sticks, twigs, and limbs can be hazardous to both bystanders and the operator.

• Check the supply of string or the condition of the blades, depending on the unit you are using. Replace bent, warped, damaged, or dull cutters.

• Check the fuel level.

• Ensure the muffler is in good condition. In dry conditions, use a fire-safe muffler.

• Make sure shields and other guards are in place and functioning properly. Never remove or disable guards or other safety devices.

FUELING SAFETY

• Use the proper fuel, such as a two-cycle gas-and-oil mixture.

• Do not overfill the tank; leave room for fuel expansion.

• Never add fuel to a hot engine—allow it to cool first.

• Do not light matches or smoke near gasoline.

WARNING

• String trimmers and brush cutters can throw objects violently—up to 30 feet. Keep people at least 30 feet away (a 60-foot diameter) to prevent injury. Stop immediately if anyone enters the area.

OPERATION OF STRING TRIMMERS AND BRUSH CUTTERS

• Start the unit on firm ground or another solid surface in an open area.

• Hold the unit with both hands and maintain a firm footing. Keep the trimmer head below waist level at all times.

• Always stand on the proper side of the trimmer while cutting. On a curved-shaft unit, the line head rotates clockwise—cut on the left side. On a straight-shaft unit, the line head rotates counterclockwise—cut on the right side.

• Bring the engine to operating speed before beginning to cut vegetation. Do not operate the engine faster than necessary to cut effectively, and allow it to return to idle when not cutting.

• Always turn off the engine and disconnect the spark plug wire before attempting to unclog or adjust the trimmer. To avoid placing hands near the blade, use a stick or other tool to remove clogs.

MACHINE SHUT DOWN

• Idle the engine for a few minutes to allow it to cool.

• Stop the engine before setting the cutter down.

• Always clean the trimmer after use. Do not spray cold water on a hot engine.

• Secure the cutter to prevent fuel spillage and damage during transport.

• Keep the cutter tool covered with the carrying guard.

KEEP PEAK

• Inspect the trimmer periodically for potential hazards, such as loose belts or missing or damaged guards. Check for accumulations of grass, leaves, or excessive grease, which can create fire hazards.

• Conduct routine maintenance and inspections to keep the trimmer in safe operating condition.