Slope Safety
• Slopes are a major factor related to loss of control and rollover accidents, which can
result in severe injury or death. You are responsible for safe slope operation. Operating
the machine on any slope requires extra caution.
• Evaluate the site conditions to determine if the slope is safe for machine operation,
including surveying the site. Always use common sense and good judgment when
performing this survey.
• Review the slope instructions, listed below, for operating the machine on slopes. Before
you operate the machine, review the site conditions to determine whether you can
operate the machine in the conditions on that day and at that site. Changes in the terrain
can result in a change in slope operation for the machine.
– Avoid starting, stopping, or turning the machine on slopes. Avoid making sudden
changes in speed or direction. Make turns slowly and gradually.
– Do not operate a machine under any conditions where traction, steering, or stability is
in question.
– Remove or mark obstructions such as ditches, holes, ruts, bumps, rocks, or other
hidden hazards. Tall grass can hide obstructions. Uneven terrain could overturn the
machine.
– Be aware that operating the machine on wet grass, across slopes, or downhill may
cause the machine to lose traction.
– Use extreme caution when operating the machine near drop-offs, ditches,
embankments, water hazards, or other hazards. The machine could suddenly roll
over if a wheel goes over the edge or the edge caves in. Establish a safety area
between the machine and any hazard.
– Identify hazards at the base of the slope. If there are hazards, mow the slope with a
pedestrian-controlled machine.
– If possible, keep the cutting units lowered to the ground while operating on slopes.
Raising the cutting units while operating on slopes can cause the machine to become
unstable.
After Operation Safety
• Park the machine on a level surface.
• Disengage and lower the cutting units
• Engage the parking brake.
• Shut off the engine and remove the key.
• Wait for all movement to stop.
• Allow the machine to cool before adjusting, servicing, cleaning, or storing it.
• To help prevent fires, ensure that the cutting units, drives, mufflers, cooling screens, and
engine compartment are free from grass and debris buildup. Clean up oil or fuel spills.
• Disengage the drive to the attachment whenever you are hauling or not using the
machine.
• Maintain and clean the seat belt(s) as necessary.
3466-702A Page 2–4 Safety: After Operation Safety
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