EPP-751 - Hedge trimmers Ozito - Free user manual and instructions

USER MANUAL EPP-751 Ozito

Max. Cutting Width: 180mm

Oil Tank: 100ml

Noise Rating: 100dB

Weight: 3.10kg

ozito.com.au

3 YEAR REPLACEMENT WARRANTY*

Technical line drawing of a mechanical tool with labeled parts (no text or symbols beyond 'OZITO')

STANDARD EQUIPMENT

Telescopic Pole Pruner

Chain & Bar

Guide Bar Cover

Shoulder Strap

EPP-751

WARRANTY

IN ORDER TO MAKE A CLAIM UNDER THIS WARRANTY YOU MUST RETURN THE PRODUCT TO YOUR NEAREST BUNNINGS WAREHOUSE WITH YOUR BUNNINGS REGISTER RECEIPT. PRIOR TO RETURNING YOUR PRODUCT FOR WARRANTY PLEASE TELEPHONE OUR CUSTOMER SERVICE HELPLINE:

Australia: 1800 069 486

New Zealand: 0508 069 486

TO ENSURE A SPEEDY RESPONSE PLEASE HAVE THE MODEL NUMBER AND DATE OF PURCHASE AVAILABLE. A CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE WILL TAKE YOUR CALL AND ANSWER ANY QUESTIONS YOU MAY HAVE RELATING TO THE WARRANTY POLICY OR PROCEDURE.

The benefits provided under this warranty are in addition to other rights and remedies which are available to you at law.

Our goods come with guarantees that cannot be excluded at law. You are entitled to a replacement or refund for a major failure and for compensation for any other reasonably foreseeable loss or damage. You are also entitled to have the goods repaired or replaced if the goods fail to be of acceptable quality and the failure does not amount to a major failure.

Generally you will be responsible for all costs associated with a claim under this warranty, however, where you have suffered any additional direct loss as a result of a defective product you may be able to claim such expenses by contacting our customer service helpline above.

3 YEAR REPLACEMENT WARRANTY\*

Your product is guaranteed for a period of 36 months from the original date of purchase. If a product is defective it will be replaced in accordance with the terms of this warranty. Warranty excludes consumable parts, for example: bearings, guide bar & chain.

*This product is intended for DIY use only and replacement warranty covers domestic use.

WARNING

The following actions will result in the warranty being void.

• If the tool has been operated on a supply voltage other than that specified on the machine.
• If the tool shows signs of damage or defects caused by or resulting from abuse, accidents or alterations.
• Failure to perform maintenance as set out within the instruction manual.
• If the tool is disassembled or tampered with in any way.
  • Professional, industrial or high frequency use.

KNOW YOUR PRODUCT

TELESCOPIC POLE PRUNER

1. Chain
2. Guide bar
3. Chain sprocket cover
4. Motor housing
5. Telescopic tube collar
6. Main tube
7. Shoulder strap retainer
8. Soft grip handle
9. Rear handle
10. Oil tank cap
11. Chain tension dial
12. Chain cover lock
13. Safety switch
14. Extension cord retainer
15. Trigger switch
16. Guide bar cover
17. Shoulder strap

ACCESSORIES

ONLINE MANUAL

Scan this QR Code with your mobile device to take you to the online manual.

YEAR REPLACEMENT WARRANTY*

SETUP & PREPARATION

1. CHAIN & BAR ASSEMBLY

WARNING! ENSURE THE MACHINE IS TURNED OFF AND DISCONNECTED FROM THE POWER SUPPLY BEFORE PERFORMING ANY OF THE FOLLOWING OPERATIONS.

Fitting the guide bar and chain

1. Loosen the chain cover lock and remove the chain sprocket cover.

Technical diagram of a mechanical component with red circular arrows indicating rotation or movement (no text or symbols)

WARNING! THE CHAIN HAS SHARP EDGES, FOR YOUR OWN SAFETY, PLEASE USE WORK GLOVES. NEVER TOUCH THE CHAIN OR SERVICE THE UNIT WITH THE POWER SUPPLY CONNECTED.

1. Place the chain in the groove of the guide bar as shown. Refer to the image printed on the guide bar that indicates the direction that the chain should face.

WARNING! IF THE CHAIN IS INSTALLED BACKWARDS (CHAIN CUTTERS FACING IN THE OPPOSITE DIRECTION OF ROTATION) THE POLE PRUNER WILL VIBRATE EXCESSIVELY AND NOT CUT.

1. Place the guide bar and chain onto the mount, ensuring that the chain sits around the chain sprocket.

1. Re-mount the chain sprocket cover and softly-tighten the chain cover lock.

NOTE: Only tighten the chain cover lock securely once the chain tension has been adjusted (see: Tensioning the chain).

2. TENSIONING THE CHAIN 3. LUBRICATION OF THE CH

WARNING! THE CHAIN HAS SHARP EDGES, FOR YOUR OWN SAFETY, PLEASE USE WORK GLOVES. NEVER TOUCH THE CHAIN OR SERVICE THE UNIT WITH THE POWER SUPPLY CONNECTED.

WARNING! BEFORE BEGINNING WORK, INSPECT THE CHAIN. NEVER USE AN OBVIOUSLY DAMAGED CHAIN.

1. Loosen the chain cover lock. Do not remove the chain sprocket cover.

WARNING! IF YOU TRY TO ROTATE THE CHAIN TENSION DIAL WHilst THE CHAIN COVER LOCK IS TIGHT, IT WILL RESULT IN THE CHAIN NOT LOOSENING AND POSSIBLE DAMAGE TO THE MECHANISM.

1. Adjust the chain tension with the chain tension dial. Turning the dial CLOCKWISE increases the chain tension, turning it COUNTER-CLOCKWISE decreases the chain tension.

Diagram of a mechanical component with red circular arrows indicating rotation or force direction (no text or symbols)

1. For the correct chain tension, firmly pull up on the chain at the middle of the top of the exposed guide bar. When the chain is pulled up to its highest point, the bottom tip of the links should only just stay in the track [middle of the guide bar].

1. After the chain has been accurately tensioned, lock securely the guide bar in place with the chain cover lock.

1. Check the tension again after a few minutes of cutting and several times in the first hour because the chain will lengthen

as it breaks in. Adjust as you go. A loose chain causes rapid wear to both the chain and the guide bar and could derail causing a major safety hazard.

NOTE: Proper tension of the chain is extremely important and must be checked before starting, as well as during any cutting operation. Taking the time to make adjustments to the chain will result in improved cutting performance and prolonged chain life.

& GUIDE BAR

WARNING! NEVER START WORK UNLESS THE CHAIN AND GUIDE BAR ARE LUBRICATED.

WARNING! ONLY USE OIL THAT IS EXPRESSLY LABELLED "CHAIN & BAR OIL"

1. Place the telescopic pole pruner on a level surface.

2. Clean the area around the oil tank cap and then open it.

1. Fill the oil tank with CHAIN AND BAR OIL (not supplied). Do not overfill in doing so, make sure that no dirt gets into the oil tank. This will ensure that the oil nozzle does not clog.

2. Always fill the oil tank when the oil level is below the minimum mark on the oil level window. The capacity of the oil tank is 100ml. Do not overfill.

3. Close the oil tank cap and clean any spillage.

WARNING! THE USE OF THE POLE PRUNER WITHOUT CHAIN & BAR OIL OR WITH OIL BELOW THE MINIMUM OIL LEVEL MARK WILL RESULT IN DAMAGE TO THE CHAIN.

1. To check the lubricating system, switch on the pole pruner and hold it with the guide bar and chain above some light coloured paper such as newspaper. A steadily increasing stain caused by oil spray shows the lubricating system is working.

NOTE: Chain & bar oil may leak if the pole pruner is left for long periods. This is normal. If left unused for an extended time, drain the oil from the pole pruner. Refill before use.

4. PREPARATION

Extension cord retainer

The cord retainer is used to "anchor" an extension cord (not included) when it is connected to the power lead of the pole pruner. It prevents the extension cord from being accidentally disconnected from the pole pruner's power lead or shaken loose during use.

1. Make a loop with the extension cord (socket end of cord), push it through the hole and secure over the hook.

Line drawing of an electric vehicle charging plug with 'ozito' branding on the handle (no additional text or symbols)

1. Pull the extension cord to secure it in position over the cord retainer.

Line drawing of an electric vehicle charging plug with 'ozito' branding (no additional text or symbols)

1. Connect the extension cord to the power lead. Route the power and extension cord away from the work area to prevent contact with the chain.

Line drawing of an electric vehicle charging plug with a cable, no text or symbols present

Adjusting the telescopic length

1. To unlock the telescopic tube collar, twist the collar in a clockwise direction while pointing the chain away from the user. The locking and unlocking directions are indicated on the collar.

1. With the collar released, the telescopic tube can be pulled forward out of the collar, thereby extending its reach.

1. To lock in the desired position, firmly twist the telescopic tube collar in an anti-clockwise direction, while pointing the chain away from the user.

Attaching the shoulder strap

1. Fasten the carabiner hook on the ends of the shoulder strap to the shoulder strap retainers.
2. Wear the shoulder strap so that it lies over your left shoulder.
3. Using the strap adjuster on the shoulder strap, make adjustments until you achieve the most comfortable working and cutting position.

Line drawing of hands using a tool labeled 'oxito' to handle a cylindrical object (no text or symbols beyond label)

NOTE: If necessary you can adjust the position of the shoulder strap retainer on the main tube. To do so, loosen the bolt and move the shoulder strap retainer as required and then retighten the bolt.

Guide bar cover

The cover protects both the chain & bar when not in use. Simply slide it off the chain & bar before use. Once finished operating, place the cover back over the chain & bar.

Protective Clothing

Make absolutely sure to wear appropriate protective clothing and equipment, such as close fitting protective pants, gloves, safety shoes, safety helmet, hearing protection and safety goggles. Wearing a safety helmet with a face guard will provide protection against falling and recoiling branches.

OPERATION

Before each use

Before beginning work, inspect the pole pruner for damage to the housing, the electrical cable, the chain and the guide bar. Never use an obviously damaged machine

Chain

Check the tension of the chain and condition of the cutters.

The sharper the chain is, the easier and more manageable the pole pruner is to operate. The same applies for the chain tension. Check the chain tension at least once every 10 minutes while working in order to increase safety.

New saw chains, in particular, tend to have a higher degree of elongation.

Oil tank

Check the fill level of the oil tank. Also check whether there is sufficient oil available while working. Never operate the pole pruner if there is no oil or the oil level has dropped below the minimum oil level mark in order to prevent damage to the pole pruner. On average, an oil

filling is sufficient for 10 minutes of operation, depending on the duration of pauses and the stress.

5. STARTING & STOPPING

WARNING! FAMILIARISE YOURSELF WITH SURROUNDING HAZARDS SUCH AS POWER LINES, PHONE LINES, METAL FENCES AND OTHER OBJECTS THAT COULD BE IN YOUR PATH. FAILURE TO DO SO COULD RESULT IN ELECTRICAL SHOCK, PERSONAL INJURY OR DAMAGE TO YOUR POLE PRUNER.

Before starting the pole pruner

• Remove the guide bar cover.
• Make sure you have a secure and balanced footing.
• Make sure the bar & chain is not touching the ground or any other objects.
• Hold the unit with both hands: one hand on the rear handle and one hand on the extension pole soft grip.
• Make sure you are wearing the appropriate protective clothing.

To start the pole pruner

WARNING! TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, THE USE OF A RESIDUAL CURRENT DEVICE RATED AT 30mA OR LESS IS RECOMMENDED.

1. Hold the pole pruner firmly with both hands

Line drawing of a person holding a rifle, no text or symbols present

1. Press and hold the safety switch with your thumb.

1. Switch the pruner on with the trigger switch. The safety switch can now be released.

To stop the pole pruner

Release the trigger switch. The chain and motor will quickly stop.

Limbing

Limbing is the process of removing the branches from a fallen tree. Check the direction in which a branch will bend before cutting it. Always cut on the opposite side to the bending direction so that the guide bar

is not pinched in the cut. For large limbs that cannot be removed in one cut, make an initial cut from the bent side and finish by sawing from the opposite direction. Do not remove limbs that are supporting the fallen tree on the ground until the tree has been cut into lengths.

Pruning

Pruning is the removal of a limb or branch from a standing tree.

WARNING! IF THE CHAIN COMES IN CONTACT WITH A HARD OBJECT, VISUALLY INSPECT THE CHAIN & BAR FOR DAMAGE. IF THE CHAIN OR BAR IS DAMAGED, DO NOT CONTINUE TO OPERATE THE POLE PRUNER.

WARNING! DO NOT OPERATE THE POLE PRUNER IN A TREE, ON A LADDER, FROM A ROOFTOP, OR ANY UNSTABLE SUPPORT. OPERATION OF A POLE PRUNER IN THIS MANNER COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS PERSONAL INJURY.

WARNING! ENSURE APPROPRIATE CARE IS TAKEN WHEN CUTTING ABOVE SHOULDER HEIGHT.

7. SAWING TECHNIQUES6. APPLICATIONS

- When removing branches, hold the pruner at an angle ranging from a maximum 60^ to horizontal in order to avoid being struck by a falling branch.

- Saw off the lower branches on the tree first. By doing so, it is easier for the cut branches to fall to the ground.

Simple line drawing of a bare tree with branches and leaves at the base (no text or symbols)

- Do not saw with the tip of the guide bar. This could lead to kick back and possible injury.

- Only pull the pruner out of the cut with the chain running. By doing so, you can prevent it from getting jammed.

- At the end of the cut, the weight of the pruner suddenly increases for the user, because it is no longer supported on the branch. There is the risk of losing control of the pruner.

MAINTENANCE

WARNING! BEFORE CLEANING THE MACHINE OR CARRYING OUT ANY MAINTENANCE PROCEDURE, MAKE SURE THAT IT IS DISCONNECTED FROM THE POWER SUPPLY TO PREVENT ACCIDENTAL STARTING.

WARNING! WEAR HEAVY DUTY GLOVES WHEN HANDLING THE CHAIN AS IT IS VERY SHARP AND CAN CUT YOU WHEN IT IS NOT MOVING.

Maintaining the guide bar

1. Remove any sawdust from the guide bar, including the groove. Oil and sawdust combine and emit a burning smell during operation if the blade is not regularly cleaned.
2. Make sure that the oil port is not clogged. Grease the nose sprocket at the tip of the guide bar.
3. Check for oil leakage and loose fastenings, especially those securing the handles and the guide bar.
4. Reverse the guide bar every 8 working hours to ensure uniform wear. Check the guide rails frequently and if necessary remove burrs and square up the rails using a flat file.

Chain sharpening

Chain File: 3.96mm (5/32")

Chain Pitch: 9.53mm (3/8")

Chain Gauge: 1.1mm (0.043)

Sharpen the chain regularly to maintain optimum performance of the pole pruner. Signs of a dull chain are:

•The sawdust becomes powder-like
- Extra force is required to execute a cut
- The cut does not track in a straight line
- Increased vibration

Sharpen each cutter using a round 3.96mm (5/32") chain file. Keep the file level with the top plate of the tooth. Always use outward strokes and maintain a 30° angle between the chain and file. After sharpening, the cutters must all have the same width and length. After every 3–4 uses get an authorised repair centre to professionally sharpen your chain. They have the special tools necessary to ensure the correct cutting angles and depths.

Cleaning & storage

• Regularly clean the tensioning mechanism by blowing compressed air onto it or cleaning it with a brush. Do not use any other tools for cleaning.
• Keep oil away from the handle in order to ensure a secure hold.
• Clean the machine as necessary with a damp cloth and a mild cleanser, if appropriate.
• If the pole pruner is not used for an extended period of time, remove the chain and bar oil from the tank. Briefly place the chain and the guide bar in an oil bath and then wrap it in oil paper.
• Always fit the guide bar cover for transport or storage of the pole pruner.
• Never immerse the machine in water or other liquids in order to clean it.
• Store the pole pruner in a safe and dry place and out of the reach of children.
• Pull the mains plug out of the socket, switch off the pole pruner and make sure that it is secured in such a way that it cannot be started up again by any unauthorised person.
• Never store the pole pruner upright, where it may fall and cause damage to the cord if left under pressure for a long period of time.
• Store the pole pruner in a dry location which is not accessible to unauthorised persons.

Supply cords

If replacement of the supply cord is necessary, this has to be done by a certified electrician in order to avoid a safety hazard.

Note: The pole pruner warranty does not cover components that have been subjected to operator abuse or negligence. To receive full value from the warranty, the operator must maintain the pole pruner as instructed in this manual.

Note: Ozito Industries will not be responsible for any damage or injuries caused by the repair of the Pole Pruner by an unauthorised person or by mishandling of the Pole Pruner. This tool is designed for DIY use - use in commercial or industrial environments will void the warranty.

SPARE PARTS

Chain Replacement

The chain can be purchased through Ozito spare parts or from your local Bunnings Warehouse. The correct chain can be purchased by matching the pitch, gauge and number of links as shown below:

9.53mm(3/8)1.1mm(.043")33 Links

Spare parts can be ordered from the Special Orders Desk at your local Bunnings Warehouse.

For further information, or any parts not listed here, visit www.ozito.com.au or contact Ozito Customer Service:

Australia 1800 069 486

New Zealand 0508 069 486

E-mail: [e-mail]

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS

V	Volts		Hz	Hertz
AC/~	Altemating current		W	Watts
min^-1	Revolutions per minute		No	No load speed
mm	Millimetre		m/s	Metres per second
ml	Mililitre			Regulator compliance mark
	Double insulated			Warning
	Watch out for falling and catapulting parts			Do not expose to rain or leave outdoors while raining
	Wear sturdy, non-slip footwear			Wear safety gloves
		Read instruction manual before use to reduce the risk of injury.
	Keep bystanders away			Sound pressure level 100dB
	Use eye, ear and head protection when operating the pole pruner
	Disconnect and discontinue use should the power cord be damaged
	Maintain a minimum clearance of 10 m from current-carrying lines. Life-threatening danger from electric shock.

CARING FOR THE ENVIRONMENT

Power tools that are no longer usable should not be disposed of with household waste but in an environmentally friendly way. Please recycle where facilities exist. Check with your local council authority for recycling advice.

Recycling packaging reduces the need for landfill and raw materials. Reuse of recycled material decreases pollution in the environment. Please recycle packaging where facilities exist. Check with your local council authority for recycling advice.

ELECTRICAL SAFETY

WARNING! When using mains-powered machines, basic safety precautions, including the following, should always be followed to reduce risk of fire, electric shock, personal injury and material damage. Read the whole manual carefully and make sure you know how to switch the machine off in an emergency, before operating the machine.

Save these instructions and other documents supplied with this tool for future reference.

This machine has been designed for 230V and 240V only. Always check that the power supply corresponds to the voltage on the rating plate.

Note: The supply of 230V and 240V on Ozito machines are interchangeable for Australia and New Zealand.

This tool is double insulated; therefore no earth wire is required.

Note: Double insulation does not take the place of normal safety precautions when operating this machine. The insulation system is for added protection against injury resulting from a possible electrical insulation failure within the machine.

Using an Extension Lead

Always use an approved extension lead suitable for the power input of this machine. Before use, inspect the extension lead for signs of damage, wear and ageing. Replace the extension lead if damaged or defective.

When using an extension lead on a reel, always unwind the lead completely. Use of an extension lead not suitable for the power input of the machine or which is damaged or defective may result in a risk of fire and electric shock.

The power supply for this product should be protected by a residual current device (rated at 30mA or less). A residual current device reduces the risk of electric shock.

GENERAL MACHINE SAFETY WARNINGS

WARNING! Read all safety warnings, instructions, illustrations and specifications provided with this machine. Save all warnings and instructions for future reference. The term "machine" in the warnings refers to your mains-operated (corded) machine or battery-operated (cordless) machine.

1. Work area safety

a. Keep work area clean and well lit. Cluttered or dark areas invite accidents.

b. Do not operate machine in explosive atmospheres, such as in the presence of flammable liquids, gases or dust. Machines create sparks which may ignite the dust or fumes.

c. Keep children and bystanders away while operating a machine. Distractions can cause you to lose control.

2. Electrical safety

a. Machine plugs must match the outlet. Never modify the plug in any way. Do not use any adapter plugs with earthed (grounded) machine. Unmodified plugs and matching outlets will reduce risk of electric shock.

b. Avoid body contact with earthed or grounded surfaces, such as pipes, radiators, ranges and refrigerators. There is an increased risk of electric shock if your body is earthed or grounded.

c. Do not expose machine to rain or wet conditions. Water entering a machine will increase the risk of electric shock.

d. Do not abuse the cord. Never use the cord for carrying, pulling or unplugging the machine. Keep cord away from heat, oil, sharp edges or moving parts. Damaged or entangled cords increase the risk of electric shock.

e. When operating a machine outdoors, use an extension cord suitable for outdoor use. Use of a cord suitable for outdoor use reduces the risk of electric shock.

f. If operating a machine in a damp location is unavoidable, use a residual current device (RCD) protected supply. Use of an RCD reduces the risk of electric shock.

3. Personal safety

a. Stay alert, watch what you are doing and use common sense when operating a machine. Do not use a machine while you are tired or under the Influence of drugs, alcohol or medication. A moment of inattention while operating machines may result in serious personal injury.

b.Use personal protective equipment. Always wear eye protection. Protective equipment such as dust mask, non-skid safety shoes, hard hat, or hearing protection used for appropriate conditions will reduce personal injuries.

c. Prevent unintentional starting. Ensure the switch is in the off-position before connecting to power source and/or battery pack, picking up or carrying the machine. Carrying machines with your finger on the switch or energising machines that have the switch on invites accidents.

d. Remove any adjusting key or wrench before turning the machine on. A wrench or a key left attached to a rotating part of the machine may result in personal injury.

e. Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance at all times. This enables better control of the machine in unexpected situations.

f. Dress properly. Do not wear loose clothing or jewellery. Keep your hair, clothing and gloves away from moving parts. Loose clothes, jewellery or long hair can be caught in moving parts.

g. If devices are provided for the connection of dust extraction and collection facilities, ensure these are connected and properly used. Use of dust collection can reduce dust-related hazards.

h. Do not let familiarity gained from frequent use of machines allow you to become complacent and ignore machine safety principles. A careless action can cause severe injury within a fraction of a second.

4. Machine use and care

a. Do not force the machine. Use the correct machine for your application. The correct machine will do the job better and safer at the rate for which it was designed.

b. Do not use the machine if the switch does not turn it on and off. Any machine that cannot be controlled with the switch is dangerous and must be repaired.

c. Disconnect the plug from the power source and/or the battery pack from the machine before making any adjustments, changing accessories, or storing machines. Such preventive safety measures reduce the risk of starting the machine accidentally.

d. Store idle machines out of the reach of children and do not allow persons unfamiliar with the machine or these instructions to operate the machine. Machines are dangerous in the hands of untrained users.

e. Maintain machines. Check for misalignment or binding of moving parts, breakage of parts and any other condition that may affect the machine's operation. If damaged, have the machine repaired before use. Many accidents are caused by poorly maintained machines.

f. Keep cutting tools sharp and clean. Properly maintained cutting tools with sharp cutting edges are less likely to bind and are easier to control.

g. Use the machine, accessories and tool bits etc. in accordance with these instructions, taking into account the working conditions and the work to be performed. Use of the machine for operations different from those intended could result in a hazardous situation.

h. Keep handles and grasping surfaces dry, clean and free from oil and grease. Slippery handles and grasping surfaces do not allow for safe handling and control of the machine in unexpected situations.

5. Service

a. Have your machine serviced by a qualified repair person using only identical replacement parts. This will ensure that the safety of the machine is maintained.

b. If the supply cord is damaged, it must be replaced by the manufacturer, its service agent or similarly qualified persons in order to avoid a hazard.

POLE PRUNER SAFETY WARNINGS

The appliance is not to be used by persons (including children) with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities, or lack of experience and knowledge, unless they have been given supervision or instruction.

Young children should be supervised to ensure that they do not play with the appliance.

WARNING! Before connecting a machine to a power source (mains switch power point receptacle, outlet, etc.) be sure that the voltage supply is the same as that specified on the nameplate of the machine. A power source with a voltage greater than that specified for the machine can result in serious the user, as well as damage to the machine. If in doubt, do not plug in the machine. Using a power source stage less than the nameplate rating is harmful to the motor.

- Keep all parts of the body away from the pole pruner chain when the pole pruner is operating. Before you start the pole pruner, make sure the pole pruner chain is not contacting anything. A moment of inattention while operating pole pruner may cause entanglement of your clothing or body with the pruner chain.

- Always hold the pole pruner with your right hand on the rear handle and your left hand on the front handle. Holding the pole pruner with a reversed hand configuration increases the risk of personal injury and should never be done.

- Hold the pole pruner by insulated gripping surfaces only, because the saw chain may contact hidden wiring or its own cord. Pole pruner contacting a "live" wire may make exposed metal parts of the machine "live" and could give the operator an electric shock.

- Wear safety glasses and hearing protection. Further protective equipment for head, hands, legs and feet is recommended. Adequate protective clothing will reduce personal injury by flying debris or accidental contact with the pruner chain.

- Do not operate a pole pruner in a tree. Operation of a pole pruner while up in a tree may result in personal injury.

- Always keep proper footing and operate the pole pruner only when standing on fixed, secure and level surface. Slippery or unstable surfaces such as ladders may cause a loss of balance or control of the pole pruner.

- When cutting a limb that is under tension be alert for spring back. When the tension in the wood fibres is released the spring loaded limb may strike the operator and/or throw the pole pruner out of control.

- Use extreme caution when cutting brush and saplings. The slender material may catch the pole pruner chain and be whipped toward you or pull you off balance.

- Carry the pole pruner by the handle with the pole pruner switched off and away from your body. When transporting or storing the pole pruner always fit the guide bar cover. Proper handling of the pole pruner will reduce the likelihood of accidental contact with the moving chain.

- Follow instructions for lubricating, chain tensioning and changing accessories. Improperly tensioned or lubricated chain may either break or increase the chance for kickback. Keep handles dry, clean, and free from oil and grease. Greasy, oily handles are slippery causing loss of control.

- Cut wood only. Do not use pole pruner for purposes not intended. For example: do not use pole pruner for cutting plastic, masonry or non-wood building materials. Use of the pole pruner for operations different than intended could result in a hazardous situation.

Kickback

Kickback may occur when the nose or tip of the guide bar touches an object, or when the wood closes in and pinches the pole pruner chain in the cut.

Tip contact in some cases may cause a sudden reverse reaction, kicking the guide bar up and back towards the operator.

Pinching the pole pruner along the top of the guide bar may push the guide bar rapidly back towards the operator.

Either of these reactions may cause you to lose control of the pole pruner which could result in serious personal injury. Do not rely exclusively upon the safety devices built into your pole pruner. As a pole pruner user, you should take several steps to keep your cutting jobs free from accident or injury.

Kickback is the result of machine misuse and/or incorrect operating procedures or conditions and can be avoided by taking proper precautions as given below:

- Maintain a firm grip, with thumbs and fingers encircling the pole pruner handles, with both hands on the machine and position your body and arm to allow you to resist kickback forces. Kickback forces can be controlled by the operator, if proper precautions are taken. Do not let go of the pole pruner.

- Only use replacement bars and chains specified by the manufacturer. Incorrect replacement bars and chains may cause chain breakage and/or kickback.

- Follow the manufacturer's sharpening and maintenance instructions for the pole pruner chain. Decreasing the depth gauge height can lead to increased kickback.

Push Back

Push back will occur if an attempt is made to saw with the top of the guide bar, if the chain touches against a rigid object and jams in the cut.

Pull Forward

If the bucking spikes are not set against the timber, the chain at the bottom of the guide bar will pull the saw forward; this can jam the chain in the timber.

To avoid this always have the bucking spikes set against the timber when performing a cut.

WARNING! Avoid using power tools and machines for long periods of time without breaks. Vibration from tools and machines can be transmitted into your hands and arms.