Your first-day checklist

Your manufacturer's manual prevails. This sheet gives the order of the steps; every figure must be read in your own manual, as it changes from one model to the next.

1. 1

   On delivery

   • Walk around it BEFORE you sign
   • Baseplate uncracked, anti-vibration mounts sound
   • Handle, throttle control, engine stop
   • Often delivered dry: no oil, no fuel
2. 2

   Before the first start

   • FILL THE OIL — the engine arrives empty
   • Machine level to check the level
   • Fuel outdoors, engine cold
   • Check belt tension and its guard
3. 3

   Kit, before you start

   • HEARING PROTECTION — the noise exceeds the limits
   • Steel-toe boots, gloves, helmet
   • Eye protection; nothing loose, no jewellery or wide sleeves
   • Area clear, nobody close by
4. 4

   What injures

   • Being crushed between the machine and an obstacle
   • Feet under the baseplate
   • Vibration through the hands, over time
   • Exhaust fumes in an enclosed space
5. 5

   On slopes and near edges

   • ALWAYS stand ABOVE the machine
   • Start from the bottom of the slope
   • ⚠️ Vibration REDUCES the bearing capacity of the ground
   • Keep well clear of edges, banks and steps
6. 6

   Day to day

   • Always look in the direction of travel
   • Never leave it running unattended
   • Engine off for any adjustment
   • Short break-in: the first oil change comes early