General Safety Rules; Engine Safety Precautions - Benchmark 196cc Manuel De L'utilisateur

GENERAL SAFETY RULES

• Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the ma-
chine and in the manual(s). Be thoroughly familiar with the
controls and the proper use of the machine before starting.
Know how to stop the machine and disengage the controls
quickly.
• Use this equipment for its intended purpose only.
• Familiarize yourself with all of the safety and operating
decals on this equipment and on any of its attachments or
accessories.
• Do not put hands or feet near or under rotating parts.
• Only allow responsible individuals who are familiar with the
instructions to operate the machine. Never allow children
to operate this machine. Never allow adults to operate the
machine without proper instruction.
• Thoroughly inspect the area where the machine is to be
used and remove all foreign objects. Your equipment can
propel small objects at high speed causing personal injury or
property damage. Stay away from breakable objects, such
as house windows, automobiles, greenhouses, etc.
• Keep the area of operation clear of all persons, particularly
small children and pets.
• Do not operate in shorts or open toed shoes. Wear proper
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) at all times, such as
gloves, proper footwear, and eye protection.
• Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry. They can get caught in
moving parts. Always keep hands, feet, hair and loose cloth-
ing away from any moving parts on engine and machine.
• Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side
shields when operating the machine to protect your eyes
from foreign objects which can be thrown from the unit.
Always wear a protective hearing device.
• Always wear work gloves and sturdy footwear. Wear foot-
wear that will improve footing on slippery surfaces. Leather
work shoes or short boots work well for most people. These
will protect the operator's ankles and shins from small
sticks, splinters, and other debris.
• It is advisable to wear protective headgear to prevent the
possibility of being struck by small flying particles, or being
struck by low hanging branches, twigs, or other objects
which may be unnoticed by the operator.
• Do not operate product when fatigued or under the influ-
ence of alcohol, drugs or other medication which can cause
drowsiness or affect your ability to operate this machine
safely.
• Never operate machine in wet grass. Always be sure of your
footing; keep a firm hold on the handle and walk; never run.
• Watch for traffic when operating machine near, or when
crossing roads.
• Temperature of muffler and nearby areas may exceed
150° F (65° C). Allow muffler and engine areas to cool before
touching. Never pick up or carry the machine while the
engine is running.
• Prolonged exposure to noise and vibration from gasoline
engine-powered equipment should be avoided. Take intermittent
breaks and/or wear ear protection from engine noise as well as
heavy work gloves to reduce vibration in the hands.
• When moving the packaged machine, always do so with a partner.
• Check local regulations for age restrictions on use of this
machine.
• Never attempt to make any adjustment while the engine
(motor) is running (except where specifically recommended
by the manufacturer).
• The tines of the tiller should not rotate when the drive
control lever is released into the neutral position. If it does
rotate when in neutral, contact Benchmark® Customer
Service for instruction.

ENGINE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

If your product comes with a separate engine manual, be sure
to read and follow all safety and warning precautions outlined
there, in addition to any in this manual.
PREVENTING CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING
• Always start and run engine outdoors. Do not start or run en-
gine in an enclosed area, even if doors or windows are open.
• Never try to ventilate engine exhaust indoors. Carbon mon-
oxide can reach dangerous levels very quickly.
• Never run engine outdoors where exhaust fumes may be
pulled into a building.
• Never run engine outdoors in a poorly ventilated area where
the exhaust fumes may be trapped and not easily taken
Get parts online at www.ardisam.com or Call 800-345-6007 M-F 8-5 CST
Owner's Manual
196cc REAR TINE TILLER
38247 (5140-005)
5