In a twist that’s turning heads across Australia, the vehicle marketed as safer than quad bikes is now claiming more lives on farms than ever before. What’s going on?
You may have heard the news, the latest statistics from AgHealth Australia highlight a worrisome increase in fatalities and serious injuries that occurred on Australian farms in 2024. A total of 72 people lost their lives and 133 sustained serious injuries, more than double the figures from 2023. In these statistics, side-by-sides were responsible for 14 fatalities, while quad bikes accounted for 10 and tractors for 8.
The term ATV refers to an all-terrain vehicle, which is frequently called a quad bike or a four-wheeler. These vehicles are considered the modern workhorses of farms, thanks to their adaptability and usefulness in a wide range of farming activities.
Since 2011, according to Safe Work Australia, quad bike incidents have resulted in 226 deaths. Notably, in 2020, there were 24 fatalities, marking the highest number in ten years due to quad bike accidents.
In 2019, the Consumer Goods (Quad Bikes) Safety Standard was established, implementing changes over a two-year period. This regulation required that all quad bikes for general use come with an operator protection device (OPD) or have it incorporated into their design. The OPD serves to protect riders from the risk of fatality or serious injury due to being crushed or pinned during a rollover, as it helps to keep the bike lifted off the ground.
A side-by-side vehicle (SSV) differs from a quad bike in several ways. SSVs usually feature a sit-in design, come equipped with a steering wheel, seat belts, rollover protection, and can carry heavier loads. In the agricultural industry, SSVs are often the go-to choice for activities that involve transporting passengers, moving supplies, and towing substantial weights. The number of fatalities involving Side by Sides reached 14 in 2024, compared to only four in the previous year.
As side-by-side vehicles (SSVs) gained popularity, quad bike sales in Australia began to decline. In 2017 and 2018, manufacturers observed that the sales of SSVs were nearly set to exceed those of quad bikes.
Although SSVs may not be as compact or quick as ATVs for specific tasks, they are just as effective in traversing tough off-road landscapes and provide extra benefits for rural workplaces. In contrast to an ATV, the controls of an SSV are generally more familiar to most individuals, as they closely resemble those of a vehicle.
Although side-by-side vehicles (SSVs) are typically viewed as safer than quads, accidents can still happen. It's essential for operators to prioritise safety by wearing the right protective gear and adhering to safety protocols. They are equipped with safety features designed to safeguard both operators and passengers from life-threatening or severe injuries. Included among the safety features are:
A built-in Rollover Protection Structure (ROPS) that helps avoid crush injuries in case of a rollover.
Seatbelts that secure you in place, preventing you from being thrown from the vehicle.
Cab nets or doors that prevent limbs from sticking out of the vehicle, reducing the chance of being crushed during a rollover.
It's been observed that a number of operators regularly avoid the speed limiter by clipping the seatbelt behind them. This practice intentionally makes the seatbelt ineffective, increasing the risk of harm or fatal accidents. We’ve discussed the importance of buckling up for safety in our previous blog, but did you know between 2017 - 2020 there were 13 fatalities involving an SSV in NSW. And all 13 times a seat belt was not worn.
It's often said the safest vehicle is the one best suited for its specific purpose. Prior to buying a vehicle for your farm, it’s a good idea to consult with your local dealer about your specific farming needs. Additionally, reviewing the recommendations provided by the vehicle manufacturer can help you determine if the vehicle is well-suited for the tasks and conditions you will encounter. Ensure that the driver has received proper training for the specific terrain where the vehicle will be used on the farm.
Training your workers will ensure they have a comprehensive understanding of the side-by-side vehicles (SSVs) features and limitations. It can also equip them with the skills and necessary strategies for safe operation. Ensuring operators receive a proper induction is the first step to safe operations. Training provides education for individuals on how to operate the SSV effectively. This is particularly important when workers are performing tasks that are new to them or utilizing new attachments, such as towing trailers.
Discussing safety in your workplace through two-way conversations can be quite a challenge. Everyone has their perspectives and feels appreciated when their voices are heard. By talking about safety during training sessions, you’re paving the way for a safer and more productive workplace.
Training should include a conversation about potential pitfalls. It's important to examine the specific terrain, hazards, and tasks involved, and to consider what might go wrong. Not everyone may think about these issues, so having a thorough discussion about possible risks and how to manage them is essential.
You don’t need to seek input on every matter, but there are certain topics where it’s important to involve your workers. These include identifying potential hazards, assessing risks, and deciding on methods to eliminate or control those risks. For example, when driving the SSV be particularly careful on uneven surfaces. Move up and down slopes instead of crossing them. Watch for rocks, holes, fallen branches and other obstacles. If you can't assess the ground conditions, it's wise to get out and walk. By brainstorming ways to mitigate these risks, we can help prevent accidents and potentially save lives!
It's important to follow the manufacturer's advice on age restrictions for operators. Generally, individuals should be 16 years or older to drive a SSV. Operators who cannot reach the controls while seated with their seatbelt on should not operate the SSV. It's important to never have more passengers than seats and seatbelts available. Passengers should refrain from riding in the cargo bed, tray, front tool rack, or any trailer being towed by the SSV.
Never operate an SSV or ATV while under the influence of alcohol or any drugs, including prescription ones. These can compromise your balance, vision, judgment, and concentration. Also, fatigue can significantly affect your ability to ride safely. A lot of SSV or ATV accidents occur at what are considered “low” speeds, yet the chances and seriousness of injuries rise with increased speed. Always follow the speed limits established by your workplace.
Many manufacturers suggest that helmets should also be worn while using side-by-sides. Be sure to adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines for appropriate helmets for your side-by-side. In the event that a rollover does occur, you could hit your head on the cabin internals including the front windscreen.
With this alarming rise in fatalities involving side-by-side vehicles on Australian farms, the need for proper training and safety protocols to prevent further tragedies is essential. As the popularity of these vehicles grows, prioritising safety measures and understanding their limitations is essential for protecting operators and ensuring a safer farming environment.
Topics: Safety Management System
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