Stihl SR 320 Instruction Manual - Page 5

The use of any mistblower may be dangerous. It is important that you read, fully understand and observe the following safety precautions and warnings. Reread the owner's manual and the safety instructions periodically. Careless or improper use of the machine may cause serious injury. Have your STIHL Dealer show you how to operate your mistblower. Observe all applicable local safety regulations, standards and ordinances. Minors should never be allowed to use a mistblower: Bystanders, especially children, and animals should not be allowed in the area where a machine is in use. Never let the unit run unattended. Do not lend or rent your machine without the owner's manual. Be sure that anyone using your unit understands the information contained in this manual. Most of these safety precautions and warnings apply to the use of all STIHL mistblowers. Different models may have different parts and controls. See the appropriate section of your owner's manual for a description of the controls and function of the parts of your machine. 1. the operator 2. the mistblower 3. the use of the mistblower . You must be in good physical condition and mental health and not under the influence of any substance (drugs, alcohol, etc.) which might impair vision, dexterity or judgment. Do not operate a mistblower when you are fatigued. Be alert - if you get tired while operating your machine, take a break. Tiredness may result in loss of control. Working with any mistblower can be strenuous. If you have any condition that might be aggravated by strenuous work, check with your doctor before operating the machine. Prolonged use of a mistblower, (or other machines) exposing the operator to vibrations may produce whitefinger disease (Raynaud's phenomenon) or carpal tunnel syndrome. These conditions reduce the hand's ability to feel and regulate temperature, produce numbness and burning sensations and may cause nerve and circulation damage and tissue necrosis. All factors which contribute to whitefinger disease are not known, but cold weather, smoking and diseases or physical conditions that affect blood vessels and blood transport, as well as high vibration levels and long periods of exposure to vibration are mentioned as factors in the development of whitefinger disease. In order to reduce the risk of whitefinger disease and carpal tunnel syndrome, please note the following: - Most STIHL power tools are available with an anti-vibration ("AV") system designed to reduce the transmission of vibrations created by the engine to the operator's hands. An AV system is recommended for those persons using power tools on a regular or sustained basis. - Wear gloves and keep your hands warm. - Keep the AV system well maintained. A mistblower with loose components or with damaged or worn AV buffers will tend to have higher vibration levels. - Maintain a firm grip at all times, but do not squeeze the handles with constant, excessive pressures, take frequent breaks.