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ATV Factsheet [PDF 1 page, 140KB]

Did You Know

Crush injuries accounted for 8 percent of the workplace fatalities investigated by the Department of Labour over the past eight years. According to the Department of Labour statistics over the last eight years, agriculture, forestry and fishing industry is the most affected industry for workplace fatalities than any other industry.

Take Care

Factsheet - All Terrain Vehicles

This image shows two young agricultural workers relaxing on ATVS. The ATVS are not moving. Both the riders wear helmets.

All Terrain Vehicles (ATV’s) are not suitable for all terrain.

The majority of fatalities in the agriculture sector involve off-road vehicles, and All Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) account for a significant proportion of these.

Statistics show that the summer months are when the majority of workplace injuries and fatalities happen so people need to take extra care.

Common errors

Speed – rushing and trying to do too much, too fast
Driving too fast for the conditions, e.g. steep, wet, and rough ground
Turning too sharply
Misjudging the ATVs capabilities and limitations
Overconfidence, complacency, and a lack of concentration
Lack of knowledge, skill, and experience
Neglecting ATV maintenance
Use of incorrect tires
Carrying passengers and cargo
Overloading, uneven loading, and loads carried on slopes

Ways to protect yourself

Wear a helmet
Wear appropriate footwear
Establish the safe routes and areas to ride an ATV
Ensure that tracks and access-ways are maintained
Avoid steep terrain
Reduce speed to a safe and appropriate level for the conditions
Complete a NZQA accredited training course to increase the driver’s knowledge, awareness, and skill level. Visit http://www.nzqa.govt.nz/

Read more about agricultural safety on the Department of Labour’s health and safety website by visiting www.dol.govt.nz

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