Main risks

• Cuts or entanglement from moving blades or tines.
• Thrown objects such as stones, sticks and soil that may cause injury or damage.
• Electric shock risk on corded models due to cuts, faulty connections or use on wet surfaces.
• High noise and vibration that can cause fatigue or discomfort.
• Loss of control on slopes, uneven or slippery ground.
• Burns from hot surfaces on petrol engines and exposure to exhaust gases.
• Irritation from dust, mould or plant debris raised during operation.
• Injuries from lifting or moving heavy or bulky equipment.

Safe use

• Before starting, inspect the area and remove stones, branches, irrigation lines/cables, netting or protruding sprinklers.
• Wear safety goggles, sturdy gloves, closed footwear with a non-slip sole and, if the noise is high, hearing protection; consider a mask if there is a lot of dust.
• Only work when visibility is good and on dry grass; avoid rain or waterlogged ground.
• On corded models, use outdoor-rated extension leads in good condition and keep the cable always behind the equipment and out of the path of the blades.
• Keep a safe distance from other people and pets; do not allow children in the work area.
• Adjust the working depth gradually to avoid damaging the lawn or overloading the machine.
• Hold the equipment with both hands, move at a steady pace and avoid sudden turns, especially on gentle slopes.
• Before cleaning, unblocking or adjusting, switch the equipment off, disconnect it from the power supply (mains plug or battery) and wait until the blades have come to a complete stop.
• On petrol engines, allow to cool before handling, refuelling or moving.

Storage and maintenance

• Clean after each use with the equipment switched off and disconnected; remove grass and soil residues with a brush or scraper. Avoid using high-pressure water on electrical components.
• Check blades/tines, guards and fasteners periodically. Replace worn, bent or damaged parts.
• Check the condition of the cable, plugs and housing on electric models; do not use if there is visible damage.
• On battery models, remove the battery to store and charge it in a dry, ventilated place, away from heat sources and direct sunlight.
• On petrol engines, refuel outdoors with the engine stopped and cool. Store fuel in suitable, tightly closed containers, away from flames or sparks.
• For prolonged storage, clean the equipment, protect the blades and store in a dry place, out of the reach of children. Consider draining the fuel or follow the manufacturer's instructions for inactivity.
• Store the equipment stably, with no weight on the blades, and with any key, battery or starting system removed.

Restrictions on use

• Intended for use on natural grass; do not use on gravel, very stony ground, exposed roots, hard surfaces or artificial grass.
• Do not use indoors or in poorly ventilated spaces (petrol engines).
• Do not operate on steep slopes, near embankment edges or where you cannot maintain firm footing.
• Do not use with snow, ice, frozen grass or extremely dry grass with airborne dust.
• Do not lift, carry or tilt the equipment with the engine running or the blades moving.
• Do not allow use by minors; operation must be carried out by a responsible adult. Always keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Do not use if you are tired, under the influence of alcohol, medicines that reduce alertness, or wearing inappropriate footwear.
• Do not force the equipment or exceed the depth recommended by the manufacturer; if the ground offers resistance, reduce the depth or make several passes.