Landscape Safety Series, Operating the Edger Safely

BEFORE USING

• Read the owner's manual to familiarize yourself with the controls and how to use the machine safely. Be sure you know how to disengage and stop it quickly.
• Never allow children or inexperienced adults to operate the edger without proper instruction. Be certain operators are physically and mentally capable of using the machine.
• Carefully survey the working area. Have children, pets, and bystanders move a safe distance away. Remove sticks, stones, bottles, and other debris that could be thrown by the machine.
• Wear proper personal protection: safety goggles or eye shield, ear protection, long pants, safety shoes, and gloves.
• Check the condition of the edger. Make repairs, replace necessary parts, and tighten loose bolts before using.
• Fill the engine with fuel out of doors. Never fuel when the engine is running or has not had a few minutes to cool down.
• If using an electrically-operated unit, be certain that it is properly grounded or is double-insulated.

OPERATING THE EDGER

• Never operate the engine inside a building in order to prevent deadly carbon monoxide buildup.
• Be sure the blade is disengaged before attempting to start the engine. (see Figure 1)
• Hold the edger with both hands in a comfortable, well-balanced stance.
• Keep your hands and feet well clear of the cutter blade.
• Watch the discharge direction carefully. Direct it away from people, pets, children, windows, etc. Be alert for situations that could ricochet material.
• Disengage and stop the engine before adjusting or repairing. Unplug electric models. Wait for all parts to stop moving.
• Store the edger safely out of reach of children.

Publication #: 8831-D

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