Main risks

• Ejection of stones, sticks and other objects that can cause injury, especially to the eyes and face.
• Entrapment, cuts or pinching from contact with moving brushes, combs or rollers.
• Entanglement with loose clothing, laces, jewellery or hair near rotating parts.
• Electrical hazard with corded equipment from damaged insulation, improper connections or use on wet surfaces.
• Burns from hot surfaces and fire risk when handling fuel with petrol-powered equipment.
• Prolonged noise and vibration that can cause fatigue or discomfort.
• Inhalation of dust, pollen or infill particles from artificial turf.
• Loss of control on slopes, uneven or wet ground; risk of skidding or tipping over with towed equipment.
• Damage to natural or artificial turf due to incorrect brush pressure or height settings.

Safe use

• Inspect the work area and remove stones, toys, cables or other objects before starting.
• Follow the manufacturer's instructions for your model and make an initial adjustment in a small test area.
• Keep people and pets at a safe distance during use.
• Wear eye protection, gloves and closed, non-slip footwear; add hearing protection if the equipment is noisy and a dust mask when airborne particles are present.
• For corded equipment, use outdoor-rated extension leads, keep the cable behind you and away from the rollers, and do not work in the rain or on waterlogged grass.
• For battery-powered equipment, insert or remove the battery with the equipment switched off; do not expose the battery to impact, water or heat, and avoid transporting the equipment with the battery fitted.
• For petrol engines, operate and start outdoors in well-ventilated areas; allow the engine to cool before refuelling and refuel away from ignition sources, cleaning up any spills.
• Adjust the height and pressure of the brushes or combs with the machine switched off and disconnected from power.
• Never insert hands or feet into brush/comb areas; for blockages, switch off and disconnect first and use tools.
• Work at a moderate speed; on slopes, avoid sharp turns and edges, and do not use the equipment on excessive inclines.
• For towed equipment, check the hitch, pins and tyre pressure; drive slowly, avoid tight manoeuvres and do not use on public roads.

Storage and maintenance

• Always switch off the equipment, disconnect it from the mains and remove the battery or any power source before cleaning, adjusting or servicing.
• Allow engines to cool completely before storing them or carrying out maintenance.
• Clean the brushes/combs and the housing after each use to prevent material build-up.
• Check wear on bristles or tines, fasteners, belts and guards; replace parts that are damaged or excessively worn.
• Lubricate and adjust moving parts according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• Store the equipment in a dry, clean and well-ventilated place, protected from the elements and out of the reach of children.
• Coil cables without knots or strain and check the insulation periodically.
• Store batteries in a cool, dry place, away from metal objects and extreme temperatures; avoid leaving them discharged for prolonged periods.
• If the equipment will not be used for a season, drain the fuel tank or use a stabiliser following the manufacturer's instructions; store fuel in suitable containers, tightly closed and away from heat sources or flames.
• For transport or moving, lock moving parts and remove the battery or cable; secure the equipment to prevent tipping.

Restrictions on use

• For adult use only; not suitable for children. Inexperienced users should familiarise themselves with the equipment before operating it.
• Do not use the equipment under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or when severely fatigued.
• Do not operate combustion engines indoors or in poorly ventilated spaces.
• Do not pick up embers, liquids, chemicals, large pieces of glass or stones that could jam or damage the mechanism.
• Do not use the equipment on surfaces it is not designed for; respect the turf type (natural or artificial) and the recommended pressure/height settings.
• Do not modify the equipment or remove guards or safety devices.
• Do not carry passengers on towed equipment, and do not stand between the towing vehicle and the implement during coupling.
• Avoid working near unprotected edges (embankments, ponds, swimming pools) or in areas with traffic.
• Do not operate in low-visibility conditions unless you have adequate lighting.