CSLB C-27 Landscaping ContractorSafetyMedium
A landscaping crew is using a large ride-on mower on a sloped property. The operator feels the mower becoming unstable while traversing a particular incline. According to general equipment safety guidelines, what should be the operator's immediate action?
- AIncrease engine speed to gain more traction and momentum.
- BAttempt to quickly turn the mower downhill to regain stability.
- CDisengage the blades, slowly back down the slope, and avoid that area.
- DShift their body weight to the uphill side to counteract the tilt.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Disengage the blades, slowly back down the slope, and avoid that area.
If a ride-on mower feels unstable on a slope, the safest immediate action is to disengage the blades, slowly back down the slope, and avoid the area, as attempting to turn, increase speed, or shift body weight can exacerbate the instability and lead to a rollover.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Increasing speed on an unstable slope can reduce control and increase the risk of a rollover.
- B. Turning downhill on a slope can increase the risk of a rollover, especially if stability is already compromised.
- D. Shifting body weight can offer minimal help but is often insufficient and can lead to overcorrection, increasing rollover risk.
Mower Slope Safety
Guidelines for safely operating mowers on inclines to prevent rollovers and loss of control.
- Always mow across slopes with walk-behind mowers, not up and down.
- Mow up and down slopes with ride-on mowers, not across.
- Reduce speed on slopes and avoid sudden turns.
Memory trick: When the slope feels too steep, disengage, reverse, and keep.