Workplace Health and Safety have released a eSafe Incident Alert regarding a quad bike collision from August 2018.

A worker’s arm was partially amputated when the quad bike he was operating collided with a mechanical pruner.

Occurring only two weeks after a separate quad bike incident on another rural property which resulted in a fatality; incidents similar to this can be prevented by following Workplace Health and Safety guidelines.

On steep terrain or when driven at speed, quad bikes can be very unstable due to their light weight and high centre of gravity. This is made worse by a tendency to overload them and fit inappropriate attachments.

PCBUs must ensure:

• a quad bike is the right tool for the task
• a helmet and other personal protective equipment, such as gloves and eye protection is supplied
• never let children under 16 ride adult-sized quad bikes
• proper instruction and training is provided and understood by the rider.

The quad bike’s fitness for purpose should be assessed prior to its use. Consider whether:

• there is another item of farm machinery that could provide a safer operation, i.e. a side-by-side vehicle, small tractor or utility
• fitting equipment (such as crush protection devices) that will minimise the risk of injury from possible rollover
• the quad bike is maintained to manufacturer’s specifications, including equipment such as brakes are working and tyres are inflated to the correct pressure
• all guards are in place, particularly foot plates
• all controls are adjusted so they can be operated comfortably and safely when seated.

Quad bike operators should:

• always wear a helmet and other personal protective equipment, such as gloves and eye protection
• be trained or have sufficient experience before operating a quad bike, particularly when riding on steep slopes, at speed or with attachments
• complete a quad bike training course
• never allow passengers on the quad bike unless it has been specifically designed to carry two people
• have sufficient strength, weight and agility to operate safely and to react quickly to changing terrain or conditions
• be aware of heat stress, fatigue or other limiting conditions which may affect concentration while operating a quad bike.

Be aware of the risk of:

• being struck by an object
• striking an object hidden by long grass such as logs and rocks, location of drains and other hazards
• a leg being caught in rear tyre, chain or foot rest
• attachments or loads being too heavy, unequally distributed or not secure
• the risks posed by poor maintenance of brakes, suspension and tyres.

Source: Workplace Health and Safety eSafe Incident Alert

25 Sept 2018