Hse Information - BOXER AGRI ATV FA 1200 User Manual

1.

HSE INFORMATION

This information sheet gives advice on the safe use of ATVs. It covers the two main types used in off-road working
in agriculture and forestry, which are: sit-astride ATVs: any motorised vehicle designed to travel on four low
pressure tyres on unpaved surfaces, with a seat designed to be straddled by the operator and handlebars for
steering control. They are intended to be used by a single operator with no passenger. However, this type also
includes ATVs intended for use by a single operator, but with a special seat for a passenger behind the operator.
These vehicles are generally called ATVs in agriculture, quad bikes in leisure use and all-terrain cycles (ATCs) in
forestry; sit-in machines: side-by-side mini-utility vehicles, usually with a steering wheel, where the driver sits in a
conventional seat and there is generally seating for one or more passengers. These are often called ATVs in both
agriculture and forestry.
The ATVs covered here are those designed for off-road use only. However, agricultural, horticultural and forestry
users can register an ATV as a light agricultural vehicle for limited on-road use in connection with their business.
Accidents
Both types of machine are designed to cope with a wide variety of terrain types, including steep slopes, but if used
outside their safe operating parameters they can very rapidly become unstable. This is why most ATV accidents
involve overturning.
On average, two people die each year in ATV accidents. Non-fatal accidents are estimated to amount to over 1000
serious injuries per year. The underlying causes of accidents were usually one or more of the following:
• lack of structured training and/or experience;
• incorrect/lack of protective clothing;
• excessive speed;
• carrying a passenger or an unbalanced load;
• tipping on a bank, ditch, rut or bump;
• a steep slope combined with other factors, e.g ground or load conditions;
• towing excessive loads with unbraked equipment.
Route planning and stability
Most accidents with these machines have occurred where they have
either been driven on new routes over steep ground for the first time,
or have been carrying or dragging destabilising loads. When travelling
over rough terrain, get to know your own ground and stick to planned
routes where possible. Walk new routes if necessary to check for
hidden obstructions. Allow for changes in ground conditions and for
the destabilising effect of loads or attachments.
NOTE
Get properly trained and always wear head protection.
The user is responsible for ensuring that all relevant papers and permissions are in place.
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ROTARY MOWER | User manual
Sit-astride ATVs (quad bikes/ATCs)
December 2020