Holiday Plea for Safe Quad Bike Use

Holiday Plea for Safe Quad Bike Use

The Department of Labour is urging farmers to take care when riding quad bikes this holiday season, and to follow four safety steps to prevent accidents.

Since 1 July this year five people have died and 32 people have been seriously injured from riding quad bikes in New Zealand.

“Quad bikes are often referred to as All Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) but these vehicles can’t go everywhere and do everything,” says the Department’s Chief Adviser Health and Safety, Dr Geraint Emrys.

“Riders need to respect their limits and pay attention to the manufacturers’ safety recommendations.

On average five people die and 850 people are injured on farms each year while riding quad bikes – 160 are hurt so seriously they need time off work or ongoing help to recover.

The Department launched a quad bike safety campaign in November promoting four basic safety steps. They are:

• Always wear a helmet
• Ensure riders are trained and experienced
• Choose the right vehicle for the job
• Don’t let kids ride adult quad bikes

“We want all quad bikes users to take care and follow these few simple steps that can ultimately save a life,” Dr Emrys says.

“The Department is in the process of compiling feedback about draft guidelines it released in late November to provide practicable steps that farmers can take to manage the hazards associated with quad bikes.

“Farmers must remember that they are subject to the same health and safety requirements under the HSE Act as any other business. The Act requires employers to take all practicable steps to prevent workers being harmed by potential hazards like working with quad bikes.”

ENDS

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