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ATVs are useful for a range of farm tasks, from running errands to delivering tools. But like any piece of equipment on the farm, operating an ATV requires proper training and safety protocols.
“ATVs are convenient and can serve as transport vehicle. However, we have seen an increase in accidents due to misuse and improper PPE,” said Dan Kent, Loss Control Consultant for Agri-Services Agency.
In 2023, the Consumer Product Safety Commission reported 498 fatalities involving off-highway vehicles, including ATVs and UTVs. Many of these accidents occurred on farms and ranches - 19% of total fatalities were children under the age of 16.
“Sometimes the best fix is to mitigate the risk from ATVs and replace them with UTVs that offer more safety features,” says Kent. “I recommend employees take an ATV certification class, dons and doffs the proper PPE before and after operation, and to be aware of your surroundings while operating the ATV.”
The following ATV operations checklist comes from the Upper Midwest Agricultural Safety and Health Center. It lists common hazards to consider before, during and after ATV operation:
- Are all employees trained and certified in how to use and operate an ATV?
- Is there approved individual PPE available for each employee to wear when operating an ATV?
- Are all the lights operational? Do they come on when you start the ATV?
- Is less than one-third of the ATVs weight on the rear carrying rack?
- Have you completed a pre-ride inspection (oil levels, fuel level, air pressure, air filter, controls, and brakes, etc.)?
- Are all the important parts of the vehicle tightened (footpegs, footplates, wheels, wheel bolts, chains/belts, cables, etc.)?
- Are all lines and cables intact? Are there any signs of wear or damage?
- Is there a Crush Protection Device available?
- Can the operator reach and operate all controls while seated comfortably?
- Are your ATVs governed to operate at or under 20mph?
- Can you complete the same tasks with a UTV that provides a seatbelt and Rollover Protection Structure (ROPS) to the operator.
From checklists to in-person and online training. There are a variety of resources to learn how to safety operate ATVs and UTVs. The ATV Safety Institute offers two unique e-learning courses to address basic safety principles available in English and Spanish.
“Most importantly, every person deserves to make it home at the end of every day,” says Kent.
Regardless of the level of prevention you put in place, accidents do happen. Leading with safety, education and compliance, Agri-Services Agency partners with agricultural operations to help minimize risks. When accidents do occur, our claims management department does what’s right – for your operation and your employees.
For more information on safety training and workers’ compensation, visit www.agri-servicesagency.com or call (877) 466-9089.
About Agri-Services Agency
Founded in 1969, Agri-Services Agency is a full-service insurance agency that specializes in providing customized solutions for farmers and agricultural businesses. ASA offers a wide range of products and services, including property and casualty insurance, workers' compensation, individual and group health insurance, dental coverage, vision plans, wellness programs and life insurance. Agri-Services Agency is committed to helping farmers and agri-businesses access comprehensive insurance coverage at a price that their budget.
