Cement Mixers are easy to use and last a long time if used correctly and maintained regularly.

All Belle mixers are supplied with full safety instructions and these should be carefully studied before operating the machine.

In order that the Belle cement mixer can be supplied in a box it requires some limited assembly for which a spanner is provided.

Before beginning work ensure that the mixer is on level ground with the wheels chocked. Don't wear any dangling jewellery or loose clothing that could get tangled in the concrete mixer; wear only suitable safety clothing such as safety boots, safety goggles and ear defenders.

One of the advantages of the Belle mini mixer is that its small enough to be wheeled through doorways into confined areas inside buildings. However, always ensure that there is plenty of ventilation to avoid any potential build up of petrol or diesel fumes when working in enclosed areas. Don't work directly in the area where the exhaust vents.

Electric cement mixers should always be plugged into an RCD device. The rating of any cable should at least match or exceed that of the mixer. Belle recommend that extension cables should be no longer than 30 metres in length. Ensure that any trailing cable is well protected and is not a tripping hazard. If leaving the mixer unattended, always switch it off and remove the plug from the socket.

Use the mixer with the safety guards fitted correctly and in the correct positions.

The working area around the mixer should be kept free of all obstructions.

It may sound obvious but never under any circumstances stick a hand or tool inside the drum while its turning. Always let the force of gravity empty the mix from the drum.

When emptying the drum following mixing, keep the drum rotating. Don't be tempted to use the mixer like a barrow - always bring the barrow to the mixer, never the other way round. Ideally have one person hold the barrow while the other tips the drum.

The concrete mixer should be cleaned correctly at the end of the day, not necessarily after every mix. The inside of the drum can be cleaned easily by running for a few minutes with 1" gravel and water. Using larger material such as bricks will only damage the drum. Do not use petrol, paint thinners or similar to clean the drum. The external parts can just be wiped clean.

If necessary the drum of the Belle mixer can be easily removed by unscrewing anti-clockwise. Great care should be taken to ensure that it is refitted correctly and repairs should only ever be carried out by authorised persons.

To maintain the mixer its important to check the engine oil level regularly. Replace or top up with 10W/30 grade oil. The gearbox oil level is preset but to check the level ensure the gearbox is cold before removing the filler plug. The gearbox should be topped up to the level of the filler plug with EP90 grade oil.

Whether petrol or electric all Belle concrete mixers have a belt which is pretensioned and requires no maintenance.

And lastly but most important of all always remember, as with using any powered equipment on site, Safety First.