The safety implications of using quads on farms

Crop loss and damage aren't the only risks farmers need to be aware of. Taking measures to ensure the health and safety of both employees and farm visitors can reduce the chances of an accident occurring.

Along this vein, quad bikes are raising concerns among authorities across Australia. On agricultural operations throughout the country, vehicle accidents are the leading cause of farm-related accidents, according to Better Health.

What would happen if a customer or employee were hurt while using a quad owned by your farm? Depending on various factors, the injured party may hold you responsible, generating the need for liability insurance.

Properly using a quad

To avoid legal risks and improve safety, there are a number of steps farmers can take when operating quads. WorkSafe Western Australia (WA) developed several rules to using these vehicles, all of which can be applied throughout other Australian states:

• Take note of the manufacturer's safety gear recommendations.
• Ensure all parties riding the quads have received thorough instruction.
• Learn what attachments the quads can handle.

Basically, familiarise yourself with the vehicles. Quad makers provide information related to proper handling and operation. For example, manufacturers typically promote how quads should be driven around paddocks, on tracks and around certain buildings.

Provide communications

One of the reasons why quad accidents can be so dangerous is because they sometimes occur in areas where people are unable to access assistance.

Regardless of the size of your farm, providing radios and other basic communication equipment to employees or visitors using quads is a step you won't regret taking. Being able to radio in for help is crucial.

What if the radio is damaged during the accident? Before heading out to different areas of the farm, workers should notify others of where they're planning to work and for how long.

Taking these and other steps could help keep people safe on your farm. These measures may be noted by farm insurance providers, who could take them into account when conducting risk assessments.