8 – EnglishGENERAL SAFETY PRECAUTIONSVibration damping systemYour machine is equipped with a vibration damping systemthat is designed to reduce vibration and make operationeasier.The machine′s vibration damping system reduces the transferof vibration between the engine unit/cutting equipment andthe machine′s handle unit.Regularly check the vibration damping units for cracks ordeformation. Check that the vibration damping element isundamaged and securely attached.MufflerThe muffler is designed to keep noise levels to a minimumand to direct exhaust fumes away from the user.A muffler fitted with a catalytic converter is also designed toreduce harmful exhaust gases.In countries that have a warm and dry climate there is asignificant risk of fire. We therefore fit certain mufflers with aspark arrestor mesh. Check whether the muffler on yourmachine is fitted with this kind of mesh.For mufflers it is very important that you follow the instructionson checking, maintaining and servicing your machine.Never use a machine that has a faulty muffler.Regularly check that the muffler is securely attached to themachine.If the muffler on your machine is fitted with a spark arrestormesh this must be cleaned regularly. A blocked mesh willcause the engine to overheat and may lead to seriousdamage.! WARNING! Overexposure to vibration canlead to circulatory damage or nerve damagein people who have impaired circulation.Contact your doctor if you experiencesymptoms of overexposure to vibration.Such symptoms include numbness, loss offeeling, tingling, pricking, pain, loss ofstrength, changes in skin colour orcondition. These symptoms normally appearin the fingers, hands or wrists. The riskincreases at low temperatures.! WARNING! Mufflers fitted with catalyticconverters get very hot during use andremain so for some time after stopping. Thisalso applies at idle speed. Contact can resultin burns to the skin. Remember the risk offire!! WARNING! The inside of the muffler containchemicals that may be carcinogenic. Avoidcontact with these elements in the event of adamaged muffler.! WARNING! Bear in mind that:The exhaust fumes from the engine are hotand may contain sparks which can start afire. Never start the machine indoors or nearcombustible material!