tractors-on-farms-pdf

SECTION 1.0 // INTRODUCTIONThis publication provides practical guidance for using<strong>tractors</strong> safely on farms.1.1 PURPOSEThis guideline outlines potential hazardsof using <strong>tractors</strong> on farms, and providesrecommendations to eliminate, isolate andminimise those hazards. WorkSafe NZ acceptsthese recommendations as current industrybest practice. They will help you comply withthe Health and Safety in Employment Act 1992(the HSE Act).On average, six to seven farmers are killedevery year in New Zealand, when using farm<strong>tractors</strong>. Many hundreds have been seriouslyinjured. The main types of accidents involvingfarm <strong>tractors</strong> are:> > <strong>tractors</strong> rolling over> > people being run over> > people being tangled in implementsand machinery.Other risks are:> > tractor fires> > working under raised loads> > touching overhead power lines> > noise-induced hearing loss> > slips, trips and falls while getting onand off the tractor.1.2 SCOPEThis guide applies to farmers, agriculturalcon<strong>tractors</strong> and anyone else using <strong>tractors</strong>on farms. Training providers will also findthis guide useful.It focuses on on-farm use of <strong>tractors</strong>. Foron-road guidance, see NZTA’s AgriculturalVehicles Guide.Every model of tractor is different and willhave slightly different safety requirements.Read and follow the instructions in theoperator’s manual to ensure you’re operatingyour tractor safely.1.3 DEVELOPMENTIndustry experts helped WorkSafe NZ developthis guide. WorkSafe NZ also conducted athorough review of both accident statisticsand published academic literature, and lookedat how overseas health and safety regulatorsmanage the same issues.WorkSafe NZ made every effort to ensure thehazard controls in this guide reflect currentbest practice.The cost to the injured person, theirfamilies, their businesses and New Zealandare too high. We must improve tractordriving practices.5