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The four fatalities involving quad bikes occurred in Wairarapa, Canterbury, Northland and Southland.
photo: 123rf.com
WorkSafe is stepping up quad bike safety awareness after four farmers were killed in quad bike accidents in the past three weeks.
WorkSafe is investigating all four deaths, the first of which occurred in Wairarapa on July 18. Another will be held in Canterbury on July 22One of them occurred in Southland on July 26, and the most recent one occurred in Northland on July 30.
All four incidents occurred at the start of the lambing and calving season.
July 15, Two people injured in Tasman region A quad bike overturned inside a farm in Mahana.
WorkSafe chief inspector Graham Bates said their hearts went out to every family and community grieving this sudden death.
“While our investigation is still in its early stages, this trend is worrying and should sound the alarm.
“Sloped surfaces and steep terrain can be particularly problematic and, unfortunately, this has been a factor in a number of recent cases.”
Bates said risk assessment of the terrain and the task must be a farm worker’s first priority before riding a quad bike – especially at this time of year.
“Agricultural vehicle accidents are one of the top two causes of workplace fatalities in New Zealand, which is why agriculture is a priority area in WorkSafe’s new strategy.
“We are targeting the biggest risks and working with the industry to improve health and safety in agriculture.”
WorkSafe’s messages are designed to reduce hazards on farms.
- Installing anti-crush or anti-rollover devices on quad bikes
- Choose the right vehicle and make sure the driver is competent
- Always wear seat belts and helmets
- Consider quad bike training
- Prioritize maintenance, including accessories, tires, and brakes
- Remember that tired people make mistakes
- Make sure the vehicle has stopped safely and apply the brakes before exiting the vehicle
- Ask for help when you need it – nearby farmers are always willing to lend a hand.
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