Friday, March 29, 2024
9.4 C
Galway
HomeFarming NewsMandatory training and helmets will ‘soon’ be a legal requirement for quads
Catherina Cunnane
Catherina Cunnanehttps://www.thatsfarming.com/
Catherina Cunnane hails from a sixth-generation drystock and specialised pedigree suckler enterprise in Co. Mayo. She currently holds the positions of editor and general manager at That's Farming, having joined the firm during its start-up phase in 2015.
Reading Time: 2 minutes

Mandatory training and helmets will ‘soon’ be a legal requirement for quads

Mandatory training and helmets will soon become a legal requirement for quad bike users, the HSA says.

The important safety regulations around quad bikes (ATVs), which include the introduction of compulsory helmet wearing and training for operators, were the focus of its stand at this year’s exhibition at the National Ploughing Championships.

The authority had a demonstration area which showcased the safe use of quad bikes and provided advice and guidance available on the new regulations and on how to become compliant in advance of the November 2023 deadline.

Quad safety 

A spokesperson for the HSA says:

“Over the last ten years (2012- 2021), there have been 11 fatalities in agriculture involving quad bikes.”

“The HSA has also reported 1 further quad bike-related fatality to date this year. This is out of the 10 reported work-related fatalities to date on Irish farms in 2022.”

- Advertisement -

Minister of State for Business, Employment and Retail, Damien English, welcomes the authority’s work in promoting quad bike safety regulations within the farming community.

He said: “Farming continues to be the most dangerous occupation in Ireland, with 10 people losing their lives in 2021 and 10 more so far this year.”

“While there have been some improvements in recent fatality figures, every death is one too many, and is devastating for the families, friends and communities left behind.”

“I would urge everyone working on farms to engage with the HSA’s guidance and look to the many supports they have available to work safer on farms, especially when it comes to operating machinery.”

Important safety measures 

HSA chief executive officer, Dr Sharon McGuinness says that the focus on quad bike regulations is “timely as we look to just a 12-month period where farmers will need to ensure they are trained quad bike users and wear an appropriate helmet when operating these vehicles”.

“In the last 10 years, we have had 11 fatalities involving quad bikes, so we know these are important safety measures, which will be in place in the coming year.”

“With the guidance and advice available from the HSA, farmers have time to be ready to meet these changes.”

- Advertisment -

Most Popular