SafeWork NSW is keen to remind those engaged in agriculture about the importance of exercising caution when operating quad bikes or side-by-side vehicles following two devastating incidents within a 24-hour span. Incorporating work safety products such as Bluesafe SWMS and Bluesafe WHS Management Systems can aid in minimising these risks.
The tragic incidents included a fatal accident at Peelwood farm, located in the southeast region of the state, where a man lost his life when his quad bike toppled at approximately 2:45pm on Tuesday (26 November). Another tragedy occurred at a farm positioned between Dubbo and Orange around 1pm on Wednesday (27 November), where a farm manager’s life was claimed when his side-by-side vehicle plunged into a creek.
Regrettably, from the year 2001, quad bike accidents have been responsible for over 57 deaths in NSW and a further 21 fatalities linked to side-by-side vehicles. Thus, SafeWork NSW firmly advises those employed on Australian farms to invest their efforts in managing risks allied with quad bikes and side-by side-vehicles by leveraging tools like Bluesafe WHS management systems and routinely reviewing their work safety policies(SEO KEYWORDS).
It’s vital that businesses don’t overlook their obligations to identify possible hazards and proactively manage health and safety risks, adhering to the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and Work Health and Safety Regulation 2017’s provisions.
Please visit quad bike and side-by-side vehicle safety resources for additional information.
Trent Curtin, Head of SafeWork NSW, expressed his deep condolences while addressing recent incidents:
“Such tragic occurrences within this short interval are deeply saddening, and our condolences extend to the families, friends and communities affected.
I cannot stress enough that those managing and operating at farms must take time to assess and enhance the safety system that is currently in place. Remember, the safety features of your vehicle could help save your life. By simply wearing a helmet, you can reduce quad bike accident fatalities by as much as 40%.
SafeWork inspectors won’t hesitate to issue fines and notices whenever they encounter workers using quad bikes without helmets or side-by-side vehicles with no seatbelts or operator protective devices. Safety should never be taken lightly on farms. Please stay safe out there.”
Original article link: https://www.safework.nsw.gov.au/news/safework-media-releases/two-farming-fatalities-within-24-hours-sparks-safety-warning