Rotary Cutter Safety

Getting familiar with your equipment before use is a great way to prevent accidents. Ensure you are using the proper equipment for the job you are trying to perform. When in doubt, check your owners’ manual. Always be sure all bystanders are away from the mower before and during operation and do not allow anyone to ride on the tractor other than the driver.

Thrown Objects – Remove all litter and debris from the area you plan to mow. Stones, tin cans, and wire can be deadly when thrown by a mower blade. Use chain or belt guards to reduce the possibility of objects being thrown from under the mower.

Safety Guidelines – Watch out for holes and ditches; these hazards may cause the driver to lose control of the mower. When making turns, be cautious not to turn too sharp. If the rear tractor wheel gets caught on the mower frames it could throw the operator. Three-point-hitch mounted mowers can swing outward when turning. Adding front wheel weights can add balance and control as well as adding a wider setting for the rear tires, greater reducing the chance of your tractor flipping over. Of course, be sure to check your owner’s manual for both your tractor and rotary cutter before use to ensure they are compatible.

Before Dismount – Always ensure the power take-off (PTO) is disengaged, turn off the engine, and set the brakes before getting off your tractor. Do not approach a mower when the blades are rotating. Be aware that the blades will continue to rotate for a while after the power has been shut off.

Equipment Maintenance – The risk of injury increases when the proper maintenance is not kept up with. Check your owner’s manual for proper maintenance procedures for your specific equipment. Check for loose parts and ensure blades are sharp. Replace blades that are too dull to sharpen. Rotary mowers are equipped with runners and safety guards. To avoid excessive wear on the runners, keep the mower just high enough to avoid riding on the runner shoes. Keep all guards in place and well maintained. Use chain or belt guards to reduce the possibility of objects being thrown from under the mower. PTO’s must be shielded.

Take-Aways

• Always read the owner’s manual.
• No riders.
• Keep bystanders away from the area being mowed.
• Wear a seat belt when the tractor is equipped with a rollover protection structure (ROPS).
• Make sure all reflectors and slow-moving vehicle (SMV) emblems are clean and visible when traveling on public roads.
• Know the capabilities of the mower.
• Check for debris, holes, and obstacles prior to mowing.
• Add tractor weights and wider tires if needed.
• Know and follow maintenance procedures.
• Keep all guards in place at all times.