- Power Take Off
- Roll Over Protection System
- Deadman Switch
Operating on uneven ground is the number one cause of accidents due to rolling of the machine. Since not all machinery is equipped with ROPS, mower operators have been killed and severely injured by improper operation on uneven ground. Even when ROPS is used, operators remain at risk and therefore should evaluate each situation on the safest way to mow.
If an area is too sloped or the ground is deemed too uneven to operate the mower safely, use a weedeater or pushmower.
Before actually mowing on even
ground, prepare the machine.
Lock the differential
for better traction on slopes and in slippery places.
If available, install
rear and/or front wheel weights to increase stability, steering, and traction. Refer to
the machine's operating manual for installing these.
When mowing on uneven ground:
Slow down the travel
speed so that you can see and react to hazards in your path. Overturns are four times more
likely to occur when speed is doubled.
Be on the alert for
holes and ditches covered by grass or debris. A wheel may drop and cause an overturn.
Drive up and down a
hill, not across.
Do not stop when going
up hill or down hill. If the mower stops going up hill, turn off the PTO and back down
slowly.
Do not try to stabilize
the mower by putting your foot on the ground.
If in doubt, do not mow on uneven ground. Saving yourself time by operating in an unsafe situation could cost you life or limb.
