THE importance of operating quad bikes correctly is at the centre of a new campaign to improve their safe use on farms.
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Elders Insurance launched the initiative as a 2013 Safe Work Australia report showed that quad bike incidents accounted for 71 per cent of on-farm fatalities in the eight years from July 2003 to June 2011.
With incorrect use proving a key contributor to quad bike accidents, Elders Insurance is making available a short, online video training series on a dedicated safety portal, farmsafetyfirst.com.au.
General manager Jon Fox said that the video was aimed at providing practical knowledge about safe quad bike operation.
"We're encouraging everyone who lives or works on a farm in Australia - and who has access to a quad bike or all-terrain vehicle - to undertake our online training, it's straightforward, will only take 10-15 minutes, but the knowledge and awareness you will gain ... could save your life or that of a loved one," he said.
"Our message is simple and clear - be better informed, be aware of how you're using quad bikes and whether they are appropriate for your farming activities and, importantly, be safe."
Safety suggestions for improved quad bike safety:
- Use the quad bike strictly according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Leave all safety guards in place.
- If your vehicle needs accessories, make sure to use the manufacturer's equipment or their recommendations and have them fitted properly.
- Strictly observe the load ratings.
- Keep the vehicle in good mechanical repair and perform regular safety checks.
- Avoid travelling up or down steep inclines.
- Don't ride in terrain beyond your riding ability.
- Complete training in the correct use of off- road vehicles.
