Warning
“Queensland Statute Reprints”
QUT Digital Collections
This copy is not an authorised reprint within the meaning of the Reprints Act 1992 (Qld).
This digitized copy of a Queensland legislation pamphlet reprint is made available for non-commercial educational and research purposes only. It may not be reproduced for commercial gain.
©State of Queensland
HEALTH and SAFETY
For the Safe
Design & Operation
of Tractors
Department of Employment, Vocational Education, Training and Industrial Relations Brisbane, 26th April, 1991 Workplace Health and Safety Act (s. 34)
NOTICE OF APPROVAL OF CODE OF PRACTICE FOR THE SAFE DESIGN AND OPERATION OF TRACTORS
I, Neville Geor~e Warburton, Minister for Employment, Training and Industrial Relations, in pursuance of the provisions of section 34 of the Workplace Health and Safety Act 1989-1990 and upon the recommendation of the Director of the Division of Workplace Health and Safety, hereby give notice that I have approved a code of practice entitled "Code of Practice for the Safe Design and Operation of Tractors"
which is to come into effect on 13 May 1991.
N. G. WARBURTON
CODES OF PRACfiCE
WHO DO THEY APPLY TO?
Approved codes of practice provide practical guidance to employers, principal contractors, owners, occupiers, employees or any other person to whom duties of care may apply under the Workplace Health and Safety Act 1989-1990 (the Act). Each approved code of practice will state the persons for whom guidance is intended to be given.
WHAT ARE THEY?
An approved code of practice may consist of any code, standard, rule, specification or provision relating to workplace health and safety. It may also apply, incorporate or refer to any document formulated or published by any body or authority. Generally, an approved code of practice contains various methods of work or courses of action which are designed to achieve optimum health and safety standards.
WHO DEVELOPS CODES?
Many codes of practice exist. They are developed by the Division of Workplace Health and Safety and other organisations, including Worksafe and Standards Australia. An approved code of practice, however, is one which has been approved by the Minister for Employment, Training and Industrial Relations under Section 34 of the Workplace Health and Safety Act. A notice of the approval of a code of practice is published in the Queensland Government Industrial Gazette. While some codes of practice may not be recommended to the Minister for formal approval under the Act, they may still provide useful advice regarding the prevention and control of health and safety risks.
LEGAL ASPECTS
No sanctions can be directly imposed for failure to observe a provision of an approved code of practice. Inspectors, may in certain circumstances, cite an employer's practice in the area of a relevant code of practice as grounds for the issue of a prohibition or improvement notice. However;
an approved code of practice is admissible in evidence in proceedings in which it is alleged that a person with a duty of care has contravened or failed to comply with the Act. A court may hold that a failure to comply with an approved code of practice constitutes proof of a breach of the duty of care, unless the court is satisfied that the person adopted standards of care which were at least equivalent to those described in the approved code of practice.
SUMMARY
An approved code of practice:
• provides practical guidance to persons with duties of care under the Act.
• is admissible in evidence in proceedings under the Act.
• should be followed, unless health and safety can be ensured by other practicable ways.
CONTENTS
Page 1. PRELIMINARY... 1
Title.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Purpose . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Application . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Scope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Objectives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 2. MANUFACTURERS ETC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Duties of Designers, Manufacturers and Suppliers . . 4 Tractor Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Tractor Design Safety Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Design for Ease of Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Provision of Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 3. EMPLOYERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Duties of Employers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Tractor Safety Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Modifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Passengers on Tractors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 4. EMPLOYEES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Duties of Employees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Tractor Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 APPENDICES
1. RELEVANT PROVISIONS OF THE WORKPLACE HEALTH AND SAFETY ACT 1989-1990 . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
1.1 Manufacturers etc.
1.2 Employers 1.3 Employees
1.4 Persons other than an employer or employee
2. AUSTRALIAN STANDARDS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 3. ROPS-TESTING CENTRES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
*CODE OF PRACTICE FOR THE SAFE DESIGN AND OPERATION
OF TRACTORS
1. PRELIMINARY
TITLE
1.1 This Code of Practice may be cited as the "Code of Practice for the Safe Design and Operation of Tractors".
PURPOSE
1.2 The purpose of this code of practice is to provide practical guidance in meeting the requirements of the Workplace Health and Safety Act 1989-1990. It includes the prevention and control of risks relating to the design, manufacture and operation of tractors. The relevant legislative provisions are listed in Appendix 1.
APPLICATION
1.3 This Code of Practice applies to every tractor at a workplace.
SCOPE
1.4 This Code is framed to assist a manufacturer, supplier, employer (owner) or employee or non-employee who may operate any tractor to achieve an adequate safety standard. It is not exhaustive in its coverage, but it is intended to cover those areas which are of particular concern.
OBJECTIVES
1.5 The objectives of this Code of Practice are to-
(a) assist a designer and manufacturer in providing tractors which reduce the risk of injuries resulting from tractor operation;
(b) assist those involved with tractor manufacturing, sales, servicing and operation in understanding their duties under the Workplace Health and Safety Act 1989-1990;
* Published in Queensland Government Gazette, dated 27th April, 1991, Vol. CCXCVI, No. 124, pages 2601-2627 also Queensland Government Industrial Gazette, dated 27th April, 1991, Vol. 136, No. 25, pages 621-647.
2 Code of Practice for the Safe Design and Operation of Tractors (c) assist an employer who provides a tractor for the use of an employee,
non-employee or himself to recognise safer tractor design features and to maintain tractors in order to minimise risks to the tractor operator whether an employee or non-employee and others;
(d) minimise the occurrence and reduce the severity of injuries to a tractor operator and others resulting from the operation of any tractor.
DEFINITIONS
1.6 For the purpose of this Code of Practice the following definitions apply-
"duty of care" means a statutory legal obligation to ensure the health and safety of specified persons e.g. employees;
"normal operation" means operation of the machine within its recognisable limits, in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions by persons familiar with its operations and controls. This definition includes the acts of inspecting the machine and entering and leaving the operator's work area;
.
' '"employer" means a person who in the course of his business engages the services of another person: the term includes a self-employed person. For the purposes of this Code the term also includes a person who provides a tractor for the use of himself, an employee or non-employee whether or not he is the owner, lessee, borrower, mortgagee or hirer of the plant;
"operator" means a person who operates a tractor whether they are a self-employed person, an employee or non-employee;
"practicable" means practicable having regard to-
(a) the nature of the employment or, as the case may be, the particular aspect of the employment concerned;
(b) the severity of the potential injury or harm to health or safety that may be involved, and the degree of risk that exists in relation thereto;
(c) the state of knowledge about the injury or harm to health or safety that may be involved, about the risk of that injury or harm to health or safety occurring and about any ways of preventing, removing or mitigating that injury, harm or risk;
(d) the availability and suitability of ways to prevent, remove or mitigate that injury or harm to health or safety or risk;
and
(e) whether the cost of preventing, removing or mitigating that injury or harm to health or safety or risk is prohibitive in the circumstances;
Code of Practice for the Safe Design and Operation of Tractors 3
"routine maintenance" includes adjustment of functional settings, routine lubrication, machine cleaning, performance of minor repairs in the field and renewing consumable items;
"should" and "may" are to be understood as implying advisory and discretionary respectively;
"tractor" means a motor vehicle whether wheel or Jrack mounted, primarily designed to provide power to or motivation (movement) of anyattached machine or implement by any transmission shaft, belt or linkage system. Tractor does not include:
(a) earthmoving machinery as included in A.S. 2294-Earth- moving machinery-Protective structures except that which is designed and used primarily to perform work as a tractor e.g. a wheeled industrial tractor;
(b) or
a vehicle primarily designed for the conveyance of passengers and goods e.g. a four wheel drive vehicle which also has a power take-off attached.
For the purposes of this Code, terms that are used and are defined in S 6 of the Workplace Health and Safety Act 1989-1990 have the same meaning when used in this Code, unless the contrary intention appears.
4 Code of Practice for the Safe Design and Operation of Tractors
2. MANUFACTURERS ETC
DUTIES OF DESIGNERS, MANUFACTURERS, IMPORTERS AND SUPPLIERS
2.1 A person who designs, manufactures, imports and supplies a tractor for use at a workplace has a duty of care to ensure that the tractor is so designed and constructed as to be safe and without risks to health and safety when used properly. A tractor is used properly when it is used in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions provided such instructions contain adequate information about the use for which the tractor is designed and has been tested, and any other information necessary to ensure that the tractor may be used without risks to the health and safety of any person has been taken into account.
2.2 An importer and a supplier of a tractor designed and constructed outside Australia still has a duty of care to supply a tractor which is of safe design and manufacture. This is generally taken to mean that the design and construction of the tractor complies with relevant Australian or equivalent overseas Standards and/or any legislative requirements.
The relevant legislative requirements of the Workplace Health and Safety Act 1989-1990 for manufacturers and suppliers (Section 12 (1)) are set out in Appendix 1.1.
TRACTOR DESIGN
2.3 The tractor should be designed arl'd manufactured to comply with the relevant Australian Standards (Appendix 2) or equivalent design criteria. Standards Australia usually nominates overseas Standards equivalent to or identical with those listed in Appendix 2.
2.4 While it is recognised that few tractors are designed or manufactured in Australia, an importer or supplier of a new tractor should be able to recognise the basic safety features of a tractQr. Safety features which need to be addressed at the design stage include-
(a) roll-over protective structures;
(b) falling object protective structures;
(c) guards;
(d) protection from noise and ultraviolet radiation exposure;
(e) other measures for operator health and safety.
These should be considered by a designer and manufacturer and are useful to know for a potential purchaser of a tractor.
Code of Practice for the Safe Design and Operation of Tractors 5 TRACTOR DESIGN SAFETY FEATURES
Roll-over protective structures (ROPS)-Designers, manufacturers or suppliers
2.5 For a designer, manufacturer, importer or supplier, of a tractor the requirements for the fitting of a roll-over protective structure are- (a) AT THE POINT OF DESIGN OR MANUFACTURE, ANY
NEW TRACTOR GREATER THAN 800 KG AND WITHIN THE AMBIT OF A.S. 1636 AGRICULTURAL WHEELED TRACTORS-ROLL-OVER PROTECTIVE STRUCTURES OR A.S. 2294-EARTH-MOVING MACHINERY I.E. A WHEELED INDUSTRIAL TRACTOR SHOULD EITHER BE DESIGNED FOR A ROLL-OVER PROTECTIVE STRUCTURE TO BE FITTED OR BE FITTED WITH A ROLL-OVER PROTECTIVE STRUCTURE.
(b) AT THE POINT OF SUPPLY, ALL TRACTORS GREATER THAN 800 KG SUPPLIED AFTER 13.5.91 TO WHICH A.S.
1636-AGRICULTURAL WHEELED TRACTORS-ROLL- OVER PROTECTIVE STRUCTURES OR A.S. 2294-EARTH- MOVING MACHINERY -PROTECTIVE STRUCTURES I.E.
A WHEELED INDUSTRIAL TRACTOR APPLIES, SHOULD HAVE A ROLL-OVER PROTECTIVE STRUCTURE FITTED.
For the purposes of this ROPS requirement, the weight of the tractor is deemed to be the lowest operational weight· in which the tractor in any form is normally available for retail sale when new and free of the weight of water, fuel and lubricating oil.
Note: In this context, supply includes but is not restricted to the sale, leasing or hiring of a tractor by the owner to any person including a dealer in tractors.
2.6 A Roll-Over Protective Structure is tested for the manufacturer by a ROPS testing centre. To be approved a structure should be tested according to the procedures outlined in-
• A.S. 1636-Agricultural Wheeled Tractors-Roll-Over Protective Structures- Criteria and Tests, or
• A.S. 2294-Earth-moving machinery-Protective structures, or
• an equivalent overseas standard.
Note that these are tests to destruction and therefore a one-off home manufactured ROPS or FOPS while perhaps passing these tests could not be used further.
6 Code of Practice for the Safe Design and Operation of Tractors
2.7 A manufacturer should ensure that every ROPS approved under A.S. 1636 or A.S. 2294 is legibly and permanently marked with the following information-
(a) the name and address of the manufacturer of the ROPS (b) ROPS identification number
(c) make, model or serial number of the tractor(s) the structure is designed to fit
(d) the relevant Australian Standard or other acceptable standard with which the structure complies.
2.8 The ROPS requirement for plant which is used for earthmoving or civil construction purposes may differ from those listed in 2.5 above.
As a guide to owners of this type of equipment, the Civil Construction Safety Manual published by the Division of Workplace Health and Safety (1991) recommends the following:
For plant purchased after 1.1.91: All new mobile plant (except for road trucks, paving machines and hydraulic excavators) which requires the operator to be positioned upon the machine to operate it, shall be fitted with roll-over protective structures (ROPS) and seat belts if purchased new.
For plant owned and in use or able to be used after 1.1.93 for purposes of civil construction: After 1.1.93, all existing mobile plant used in civil construction or able to be used in civil construction (except for road trucks, paving machines and hydraulic excavators) which require the operator to be positioned upon the machine to operate it shall be fitted with ROPS and seat belts.
Falling object protective structure (FOPS)-Designers, manufacturers and suppliers
2.9 If a tractor is capable of being used for tree-fellin1,1; or in other situations which create a risk to the operator of falling obJects, then the
Code of Practice for the Safe Design and Operation of Tractors 7 tractor should be designed for a falling object protective structure (FOPS) to be fitted. FOPS is a system of structural members and mesh sheeting attached to a tractor to provide the operator with protection from falling objects e.g. branches, rocks, bales.
2.10 An approved FOPS should have been tested according to the procedures outlined in A.S. 2294-Earth-moving machinery-Protective structures.
2.11 A manufacturer should mark every FOPS (unless combined with ROPS) legibly and permanently with the following information- (a) the name and address of the manufacturer of the FOPS (b) FOPS identification number
(c) make, model or serial number of the tractor(s) the structure is designed to fit
(d) the relevant Australian Standard or other acceptable standard with which the structure complies
(e) any other information as deemed appropriate by the manufacturer, e.g. installation, repair or replacement information.
Guards-Designers, manufacturers and suppliers
2.12 A designer should ensure that the necessity for guarding is minimised in the design of the tractor. A manufacturer should manufacture guards to the designer's specifications. A supplier should ensure that a tractor is sold with the guards that were designed for it fitted i.e. that the designers and manufacturers requirements are met at the point of sale.
The guarding design requirements of A.S. 2153-Rules for the guarding of Agricultural Tractors and Machinery or other equivalent standard should be applied by a designer and manufacturer of the tractor. Guards should protect the operator or any other person from parts of the tractor which are potentially hazardous either when the tractor is in normal operation or undergoing routine maintenance. An owner of a tractor who modifies or alters guards has the same duties as a designer and manufacturer.
Protection from exposure to noise and ultraviolet radiation
2.13 A tractor should be designed to minimise noise from engines, exhausts and vibrating tractor parts. Sound should be deflected upwards and away from the operator.
2.14 The use of canopies with ROPS and/or FOPS should be considered to minimise the operator's exposure to direct sunlight and ultraviolet radiation exposure.
8 Code of Practice for the Safe Design and Operation of Tractors Design measures for operator health and safety
2.15 Switches and levers should be designed to be within easy-reach of the majority of potential operators and placed to reduce the risk of the wrong switch or lever being used. Switches should be easy to identify.
2.16 The operator's seat should be fully adjustable and well-sprung to reduce vibration. The backrest should support the lower part of the spine to minimise postural stress to the spine.
2.17 Exhaust pipes and cab ventilation systems should be designed and constructed to ensure that the operator does not inhale exhaust fumes.
2.18 Operator access to and exit from a tractor should be designed to allow a person to get on and off the tractor without undue stretching.
All access surfaces should be non-slip and designed to prevent the build- up of dirt and mud.
2.19 Where a cabin is fitted, adequate ventilation facilities should be provided for the operator. Windscreens and glass fitted should be safety glass complying with A.S. 2080-Safety Glass for Land Vehicles.
Alternatively, where any glazing material other than glass is fitted, it should be a clear material of a kind that does not shatter.
2.20 A seat belt should be fitted to all seating positions on new tractors in accordance with A.S. 2664-Earthmoving Machinery-Seat Belts and Seat Belt Anchorages.
DESIGN FOR EASE OF OPERATION
2.21 Tractor design should include features which improve operational safety, such as-
(a) Warning signs attached to the tractor. Warning signs should include information about the normal operating speed of the power take- off. Where a conversion assembly is available for changing tractor or implement speeds, an instruction placard specifying power take- off speed and corresponding draw bar adjustments should also be provided. The warning signs should conform to A.S. 1319-Safety signs for the occupational environment, be written in English and permanently attached to a conspicuous part of the tractor.
(b) Providing the tractor with self-starting equipment. Starting the engine should be by operation of a rotary or pull-out switch, which is preferably key-operated to lessen the risk of accidental starting.
(c) Interlocking the tractor engine starting mechanism with the transmission or clutch to prevent the engine starting up when left in gear.
(d) Providing efficient service brakes able to stop the fully laden tractor fitted with the heaviest recommended implement. The service brake
Code of Practice for the Safe Design and Operation of Tractors 9 efficiency should be not less than 40 percent as measured on a Tapley brake meter. The parking brake or the service brake should hold the tractor with the heaviest recommended implement on a slope of 15°.
(e) If the tractor is to be operated on public roads, a horn, brake, head, tail, turn signal lights, reflectors and rear-view mirrors should be fitted on the tractor in accordance with traffic regulations requirements. Where a tractor is operating in a confined area and other persons can not be excluded, it should be fitted with reversing beepers.
PROVISION OF INFORMATION
2.22 Information should be provided by the designer and/or manufacturer and distributed by the supplier on the recommended application for which the tractor has been designed, and on any precautions necessary to ensure the safe operation of the tractor. Such information may be made available to employers and operators in the operator's manuals, information guides and training programs and should cover-
(a) tractor specifications-power, output, load carrying capacity and ability to pull loads.
(b) tractor operational data-power take-off procedures, implement specifications, manufacturer's instructions for use.
(c) tractor servicing and maintenance-correct maintenance scheduling and maintenance of log books.
10 Code of Practice for the Safe Design and Operation of Tractors
3. EMPLOYERS
DUTIES OF EMPLOYERS
3.1 An employer who provides a tractor for use by an employee, to a non-employee for use at the employer's workplace or for his own use as a self-employed person has a duty of care to ensure, as far as practicable, the health and safety of the user at the workplace. This duty relates to the maintenance of the tractor in a safe condition, its safe operation in systems of work and providing a tractor that is safe in use. The relevant legislative provisions of the Workplace Health and Safety Act 1989-1990 (Sections 9, 10 and 11) for employers are set out in Appendix 1.2.
Note: Throughout the rest of Section 3 of this Code, the term "owner"
will be used for purposes of simplicity but means "employer".
TRACTOR SAFETY FEATURES
3.2 When persons are considering purchase of a tractor, the tractor safety design features of the tractor as listed in Section 2 of this Code should be taken into account. Tractor buyers should seek a tractor incorporating these health and safety features.
Roll-Over Protective Structures (ROPS) (Tractor Owners)
3.3 (a) AS A GENERAL RULE ANY TRACTOR FOR WHICH A ROPS HAS BEEN DESIGNED AND/OR MANUFACTURED SHOULD ONLY BE OPERATED IF A ROPS HAS BEEN FITTED.
(Please note that the effect of this recommendation is that in any prosecution involving a tractor roll-over after the date this code becomes effective, non-compliance with this recommendation where a ROPS could have been fitted without the cost being prohibitive, could result in a heavy penalty).
(b) A tractor weighing more than 800 kilograms and within the ambit of A.S. 1636 or A.S. 2294 has been designed to have a ROPS fitted and an approved ROPS has generally been manufactured for them. An approved ROPS has. an identification plate attached, as described in Section 2. 7. An approved ROPS is available from a tractor dealer. The ROPS is designed for the weight of the tractor-the effect of the weight of the implements may also need to be considered.
(c) At the point of supply, where a tractor does not have a ROPS fitted, the purchaser should request of the supplier a written statement as to the capacity of the tractor to have a ROPS fitted and the particular ROPS approved for that tractor.
Code of Practice for the Safe Design and Operation of Tractors 11 (d) A tractor that does not have a ROPS fitted should not be used
at a workplace unless all the proposed activities involving it have been assessed for the risks to health and safety and the owner has taken all reasonable action to either prevent or control these risks.
3.4 The design and construction of a ROPS is a skilled operation which requires some experience. The safety of a ROPS is dependent upon the frame yielding and absorbing energy to reduce the load transmitted to the mounting bolts. This reduces the likelihood of continuous roll-over while at the same time offering protection to the operator. A rigid frame while being strong enough to withstand the roll-over may break the mounting bolts on the tractor, or may suddenly fracture rather than yield. The performance of a ROPS under stress can only be determined by conducting a test to the relevant Australian Standard or equivalent overseas standard.
The Australian Standard ROPS test destroys a ROPS. Even if a home- made ROPS passes the test, because it is destroyed an identical ROPS, i.e. same construction, materials, etc., would have to be constructed to be acceptable as an approved ROPS. This requirement makes it impractical for individuals to build their own ROPS.
3.5 An approved ROPS may be available for a quite early model tractor e.g. back as far as 1945. If these are unavailable from the manufacturer, a ROPS testing centre may supply an approved frame, or test a home designed frame. A list of ROPS testing centres is included in Appendix 3.
3.6 An approved fold-down ROPS with a locking device may be more practical to use where a tractor is operating inside or close to buildings, or near trees.
3.7 An approved ROPS in service has an indefinite lifespan. Any signs of physical deterioration e.g. dents, rust, cracks may indicate problems.
Cracks and fatigue often affect the mountings or brackets and these should be regularly inspected for any signs of deterioration. A damaged ROPS whose structural integrity may have been adversely affected, indicated for example by deformation or cracking of the structure, should be replaced.
3.8 Where an owner has chosen not to have a ROPS fitted or a ROPS can not be fitted, special attention is needed to ensure that the tractor is operated with due care. There are no circumstances of operation in which a tractor is safe from overturning. Circumstances where tractors have overturned include: level ground, uneven ground, slight and heavy slopes, the edges of depressions, contour banks or water courses and towing/pulling of light, heavy, stable and unstable loads.
12 Code of Practice for the Safe Design and Operation of Tractors Falling-object Protective Structure (FOPS)
3.9 A falling object protective structure as described in Sections 2.9- 2.11 should be fitted to the tractor where the operator is at risk from being struck by falling objects e.g. branches, bales. Damaged FOPS whose structural integrity may have been adversely affected indicated by deformation or cracking of the structure, should be replaced.
Guards
3.10 A tractor owner should apply the principles of good guarding design in assessing tractors for purchase. A tractor owner who alters, modifies or reconstructs guards on a tractor is to tllat extent a designer and manufacturer and those duties then apply. Repair of guards is regarded as maintenance. Generally, guards are incorporated by a designer because a design could not be devised to control the hazard. For this reason, GUARDS SHOULD NOT BE REMOVED UNLESS THIS IS NECESSARY FOR MAINTENANCE.
Design measures for operator health and safety for assessment by employers 3.11 Features which make the operator less vulnerable to health and safety risks and body stress are listed in Sections 2.15-2.22. These include-
( a) the location of switches and levers within easy reach ofthe operator to avoid repetitive injury risks and to reduce the risk of the wrong lever or control being used;
(b) a well-sprung, adjustable seat and seat belt;
(c) a low level of noise. Where noise cannot be reduced sufficiently at source, hearing protection equipment should be supplied to the operator;
(d) control of ultraviolet radiation exposure e.g. by provision of shade;
(e) the positioning of the exhaust outlet so as to direct gases away from operator;
(f) easy access to and exit from the tractor;
(g) non-slip surfaces for access and exit;
(h) adequate ventilation if a cabin has been fitted.
Versatility
3.12 Tractors used in a variety of situations and for different purposes should be designed to maintain the safety of the operator under all circumstances of intended use. Features which will improve operational safety are listed in 2.21 of this Code.
Code of Practice for the Safe Design and Operation of Tractors 13 MAINTENANCE
3.13 Tractor owners should maintain tractors in a safe operating condition by making regular inspections and following the manufacturer's recommended servicing and maintenance procedures. Log books should be maintained which record scheduled maintenance and repairs performed and any modifications which might affect the safe operation of the tractor.
MODIFICATIONS
3.14 Tractor owners who modify their tractor are considered a manufacturer under the Workplace Health and Safety Act 1989-1990.
Any modifications undertaken need to comply with the specified design criteria for tractor construction or the end product should meet or exceed the design criteria. Any modification to a ROPS or FOPS such as the welding of brackets to support a roof or the drilling of holes may affect its structural integrity and dramatically reduce its protective ability.
PASSENGERS ON TRACTORS
3.15 Generally, passengers SHOULD NOT be allowed to ride on tractors.
Passengers can not be effectively protected by ROPS and safe, adequate passenger seating is generally not incorporated into the design of tractors.
In only two situations might it be reasonable for passengers to be on a tractor. The first is for reason of instruction and training and the second is in situations of extreme emergency e.g. transport to or from the scene of a serious accident.
3.16 Where a tractor is routinely used for the purpose of instruction or training, a safe system of work should be maintained. This may involve instruction by:
(a) two way radio, or
(b) the provision of a seat or platform with handrail which prevents the instructor slipping, falling or being thrown from the tractor.
Most passenger injuries occur because the passenger is thrown from the tractor.
TRAINING
3.17 Tractor owners should ensure the safe operation of the tractor through instruction, training and constant supervision of the operator while the operator is gaining experience in tractor operation. This training should include information on hazards likely to be met in the course of the operation, correct operating procedures and emergency procedures. Tractor owners should ensure that operators are thoroughly familiar with the manufacturer's operating instructi~ns. As a guide, it
14 Code of Practice for the Safe Design and Operation of Tractors may be useful to fix these to the relevant parts of the tractor. Even where a tractor owner has reason to believe that an operator is competent, based for example on stated work experience, it is wise to verify this by questioning or demonstration before allowing them to operate the tractor.
3.18 Tractor owners should ensure that operators hold the appropriate licences and certificates if required.
Code of Practice for the Safe Design and Operation of Tractors 15
4. EMPLOYEES
DUTIES OF EMPLOYEES
4.1 An employee or non-employee who uses a tractor provided by an employer has a duty of care to act in a manner that does not adversely affect the health and safety of themselves or others at the workplace.
The relevant legislative provisions of the Workplace Health and Safety Act 1989-1990 (Sections 13 and 14) for tractor operators are set out in Appendix 1.3.
Note: Throughout the rest of Section 4 of this Code, the term "operator"
will be used for purposes of simplicity but means " employee" or "non- employee" in the context.
4.2 The specific components of this duty include:
(a) to follow instructions given by an employer to ensure health and safety;
(b) not to wilfully or recklessly interfere with or misuse anything provided by an employer to ensure health and safety.
More specific information on these duties is contained in Sections 4.3 to 4. 8 of this Code.
TRAINING
4.3 Prior to using a tractor, a tractor operator should have received sufficient instruction or training in the safe operation of the tractor.
The operator should be familiar with-
(a) Information contained in the manufacturer's operating instruction handbook;
(b) Tractor controls and instruments, brakes, clutch and gears;
(c) Tractor safety features e.g. guards, seat belt;
(d) Comfort controls e.g. adjusting the seat to be in reach of all controls;
(e) Operating instructions including starting, moving off and how to stop the tractor;
(f) Regular service procedures required;
(g) Proper attachment of implements.
4.4 Tractor operators should also be informed of possible hazard situations, and know how to reduce the risk of accidents. High risk situations require that utmost caution should be taken where-
(a) there is a risk of the tractor overturning and ROPS and seatbelts have not been fitted;
16 Code of Practice for the Safe Design and Operation of Tractors (b) it is necessary to carry passengers and protective frames and seat
belts are not provided;
(c) the tractor is to be operated in an area where it is not practicable to totally separate the tractor operation from other employees or non-employees e.g. children.
A tractor operator who requires more information about how to operate the tractor in a competent and safe manner should seek instruction from the employer or information from the manufacturer's handbook.
TRACTOR OPERATION
4.5 Tractors are involved in injuring or killing more people than any other piece of farm equipment. To reduce some of the potential risks from tractor operation and maintenance, the following safety precautions are recommended. These descriptions are offered with the proviso that they should in no way inhibit the employer from providing alternatives that are equal or better. Where these recommendations are in conflict with manufacturer's guidelines, the manufacturer's instructions should be followed.
4.6 Safety precautions for tractor operators:
(a) Only start and use the tractor in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
(b) Operate the self-starter only from the driving position and do not start the machine while standing on the ground.
(c) Before attempting to crank start a tractor engine, check that the handbrake is on and the vehicle is not in gear.
(d) Familiarise yourself with the layout of the land you are working on and watch for ditches, embankments, and depressions, especially when the edge is unstable or slippery conditions prevail. Extra care should be taken if a ROPS is not fitted or a seat belt is not available.
(e) Engage the appropriate gear for the work being undertaken.
(f) Drive tractors at speeds slow enough to retain control over unexpected hazards; be cautious in wet conditions.
(g) Reduce speed before turning or applying turning brakes. Where a differential lock and turning brakes are fitted, ensure that the differential lock is disengaged and the turning brakes are locked together before travelling from one work site to another.
(h) Descend slopes cautiously with tractor in low gear.
(i) To increase stability when working on hillsides, set tractor wheels to the widest possible setting.
When a tractor is bogged in mud or in a ditch, drive out in reverse gear. Logs and planks should only be used behind the rear wheels
Code of Practice for the Safe Design and Operation of Tractors 17 to increase traction, as using logs and planks in front of the rear wheels increases the chance of backflipping.
(k) Only climb onto or alight from a stationary tractor. Do not dismount from a tractor while the engine is running (e.g. to feed animals or open a gate) unless the transmission is in the neutral, or park position, and the parking brake is effectively engaged.
(I) When an attachment becomes blocked, the tractor should be stationary, the drive to the attachment disconnected and the moving parts of the implement stopped before the obstruction is cleared.
(m) Implements should only be attached to the manufacturers drawbar three point linkage, or other specified hitch points. Attempting to hitch from points higher than and forward of the drawbar is extremely dangerous.
(n) Ensure that the weight applied to the three point linkage by lifting jibs or other attached equipment does not adversely affect stability or steering or exceed the manufacturer's specifications.
( o) Seek expert technical advice before fixing counter weights or wheel weights (front or rear) to increase tractor stability.
(p) Seek advice from the manufacturer about the recommended weight of a trailer or implement which the tractor can safely tow.
(q) When using the tractor as a source for stationary power take-off or belt work, apply and lock the parking brake and chock the wheels. Bond the tractor frame to earth according to manufacturer's instructions to remove the risk posed by static electricity when using belts.
(r) Operate tractors only in well-ventilated areas to avoid build-up of exhaust gases.
(s) Exercise extreme caution when operating a tractor or any attached equipment when children or animals are in the area.
(t) Use all available warning lights when operating on a declared road reserve on which the tractor may create a hazard.
4.7 When stopping operations involving a tractor, the following precautions should be taken-
(a) Park on even ground.
(b) Shift the gear selector to neutral or park position.
(c) Disconnect power sources and secure implements.
(d) Lower blades, buckets or any other attachments to the ground and securely block these attachments.
(e) Lock the parking brake.
(f) Stop the engine and remove the keys.
18 Code of Practice for the Safe Design and Operation of Tractors MAINTENANCE
4.8 When undertaking servicing or maintenance, the following precautions should be taken-
(a) Before inspecting or working underneath a tractor, ensure that the operator has alighted, the tractor cannot move and any movable attachments are lowered to the ground and safely blocked.
(b) Stop all power sources to pulleys before removing or replacing belts.
(c) If the wheel track is adjustable, set the wheels as wide apart as practicable.
(d) Stop all hazardous machinery and secure it before any work is undertaken.
(e) Allow the engine to cool before removing the radiator cap, and be careful of escaping steam.
(f) When jump starting the tractor connect the jumper leads as specified by the manufacturer, to avoid damage to the electrical system and the possibility of a battery explosion.
(g)
(h)
(i) (j)
When removin~ and refitting tractor tyres, first remove the valve core to allow atr to escape and make the tyres flexible. Maintain a good grip on the tyre lever and stand to the side of the tyre when removing the tube from the rim.
While inflating a tyre, continually check to ensure the locking ring is properly seated and locked. The tyre should be inflated to its correct pressure, according to the tyre manufacturer's load/inflation specifications. Always stand to the side when inflating a tyre. An inflation cage can be used when inflating large tyres.
The ballasting of tractor tyres should be done in accordance with manufacturer's recommendations.
Keep open flames, open lights, lighted cigarettes etc. away from the refuelling operation. During refuelling, maintain some form of contact between the metal outlet of the refuelling hose and the fuel tank opening to reduce the risk of an explosion or fire due to a discharge of static electricity. Always refuel in a well ventilated area.
Code of Practice for the Safe Design and Operation of Tractors 19
Appendix 1 Relevant Provisions of the
Workplace Health and Safety Act 1989-1990
1.1 DESIGNERS, MANUFACTURERS, IMPORTERS OR SUPPLIERS
Section 12(1) of the Workplace Health and Safety Act 1989-1990 states that:
A person who designs, manufactures, imports or supplies any plant for use at a workplace who-
(a) fails to ensure that the plant is so designed and constructed as to be safe and without risks to health when used properly, save where it is not practicable for him to do so;
(b) fails to carry out or arrange for the carrying out of such testing and examination as may be necessary for the performance of the duty imposed by paragraph (a);
(c) fails to take such action as is necessary to ensure that there is available in connexion with the use of the plant at the workplace adequate information about the use for which it is designed and has been tested, and about any conditions necessary to ensure that when put to that use it will be without risks to the health and safety of any person;
or
(d) fails to take such action as is necessary or required by the Director to remove from a workplace, plant that the Director considers, on reasonable grounds, to be unsafe and a risk to the health and safety of any person,
commits an offence against this Act.
20 Code of Practice for the Safe Design and Operation of Tractors
1.2 EMPLOYERS
Employers' duties are covered by Sections 9, 10 and 11 ofthe Workplace Health and Safety Act 1989-1990.
Section 9 (1) states-
(1) An employer who fails to ensure the health and safety at work of all his employees, save where it is not practicable for him to do so, commits an offence against this Act.
Section 9 (2) further states the following all constitute particulars of the offence mentioned in Section 9 (1)-
(a) particulars of failure to provide and maintain plant and systems of work that are so far as is practicable safe and without risks to the health and safety of any person;
(b) particulars of failure to make arrangements for ensuring so far as is practicable safety and absence of risks to health and safety in connexion with the use, handling, storage and transport of plant and substances;
(c) particulars of failure to maintain so far as is practicable any workplace under the control and management of the employer in a condition that is safe and without risks to the health and safety of any person;
(d) ( .... refers to adequate facilities);
(e) particulars offailure to provide so far as is practicable such information, instruction, training and supervision to such persons as are necessary to enable the employees to perform their work in a manner that is safe and without risks to their health and safety;
(f) particulars of failure to provide personal protective equipment where it is not practicable to control hazards at the workplace by other means.
Code of Practice for the Safe Design and Operation of Tractors 21 Section 10 of the Workplace Health and Safety Act 1989-1990 relates to employers and self-employed persons ensuring the health and safety of themselves and persons other than employees-
(1) An employer who fails to conduct his undertaking in such a manner as to ensure that his own health and safety and the health and safety of persons not in his employment and members of the public who may be affected thereby are not exposed to risks arising from the conduct of his undertaking, save where it is not practicable for him to do so, commits an offence against this Act.
(2) A self-employed person who fails to ensure that persons not in his employment and members of the public are not exposed to risks to their health and safety as a result of the work in which he or any of his employees is engaged, save where it is not practicable for him so to do, commits an offence against this Act.
Section 11 of the Workplace Health and Safety Act 1989-1990 requires the following duties for persons in control of workplaces, etc., used by non-employees, e.g. family, visitors, to ensure their health and safety-
(1) A person who has, to any extent, control of-
or
(a) premises (not being domestic premises) that have been made available to persons (not being his employees) as a place of work, or the means of access thereto or egress therefrom;
(b) any plant or substance, in any premises (not being domestic premises), that has been provided for the use or operation of persons at the workplace (not being his employees),
and who fails to ensure that the premises, the means of access thereto or egress therefrom or the plant or substance, as the case may be, are or is safe and without risks to health, save where it is not practicable for him to do so, commits an offence against this Act.
(3) A reference in this section to a person having control of any thing is a reference to a person having control of the thing in connexion with the carrying on by him of a trade, business or other undertaking (whether for profit or not).
22 Code of Practice for the Safe Design and Operation of Tractors 1.3 EMPLOYEES
If the tractor operator is an employee he or she has a duty to comply with instructions about safe tractor operation. Section 13 of the Workplace Health and Safety Act 1989-1990 refers to duties of employees, and states that the following actions constitute an offence against this Act-
(1) An employee who, while at his workplace, wilfully acts in a manner that endangers the health or safety of himself or any other person, commits an offence against this Act.
(2) An employee who-
(a) fails to comply, so far as is practicable, with instructions given by his employer for the health or safety of that employee or for the health or safety of other persons;
commits an offence against this Act.
(3) An employee who-
or
(a) wilfully or recklessly interferes with or misuses anything provided in the interests of health or safety pursuant to any provision of this Act;
(b) wilfully places at risk the health or safety of any person at the workplace,
commits an offence against this Act.
1.4 PERSONS OTHER THAN AN EMPLOYEE OR EMPLOYER Section 14 of the Workplace Health and Safety Act 1989-1990 refers to the duties of persons other than an employer or employee. A person other than an employer or an employee who, at a workplace-
(a) acts in a manner that endangers the health or safety of any other person at the workplace;
(b) fails to carry out a safety direction that is given to him by the principal contractor or employer, as the case may be, for the workplace concerned;
or
(c) wilfully or recklessly interferes with any thing provided in the interests of health or safety at the workplace,
commits an offence against this Act.
Code of Practice for the Safe Design and Operation of Tractors 23 Appendix 2-AUSTRALIAN STANDARDS
The following Australian Standards are relevant to the design and operation of tractors for manufacturers and tractor owners. Equivalent overseas standards are included in brackets.
Manufacturers
A.S. 1019 Internal Combustion Engines-Spark Emission Control Devices.
A.S. 1064 Agricultural and light industrial equipment-Operator controls-Symbols.
A.S. 1121 Guards for Agricultural Tractor PTO drives.
A.S. 1246 Location and direction of motion of operator's controls for agricultural tractors and self-propelled agricultural machines.
A.S. 1636 Agricultural Wheeled Tractors-Roll-over protective structures-Criteria and tests (equivalent to ISO 3463 and 5700).
A.S. 1657 Fixed Platforms, Walkways, Stairways and Ladders-Design, construction and installation (also known as the SAA Code for fixed platforms, walkways, stairways, and ladders).
A.S. 2012 Method for measurement of airborne noise from agricultural tractors and earth-moving machinery.
A.S. 2080 Safety Glass for Land Vehicles.
A.S. 2153 Rules for the guarding of Agricultural Tractors and Machinery.
A.S. 2294 Earth-moving machinery-Protective structures (identical to ISO 3471/1 and SAEJJ040).
A.S. 2393 Hydraulic coupler for agricultural tractors.
A.S. 2664 Earthmoving machinery-Seat belts and seat belt anchorages.
A.S. 2951.3 Earth-moving machinery-Nomenclature-Tractors.
D22 Dimensions of agricultural tyres, rims and hubs.
24 Code of Practice for the Safe Design and Operation of Tractors Tractor Owners
A.S. 1121 Guards for Agricultural Tractor PTO drives.
A.S. 1319 Safety signs for the occupational environment.
A.S. 1636 Agricultural Wheeled Tractors-Roll-over protective structures-Criteria and tests (equivalent to ISO 3463 and 5700).
A.S. 2153 Rules for the guarding of Agricultural Tractors and Machinery.
A.S. 2294 Earth-moving machinery-Protective structures (identical to ISO 3471/1 and SAEJ1040).
Code of Practice for the Safe Design and Operation of Tractors 25 Appendix 3-ROPS-TESTING CENTRES
Agricultural Engineering Unit (NATA approved) State Research Station
Princes Highway Werribee VIC 3030 Jaws Buckets Lot 10
Willingdon Street Archerfield Qld 4108
Mega Engineering Pty Ltd (NATA approved) 28 McRoyle Street
Wacol Qld 4076
Plant and Transportation Engineering Pty Ltd 438 Warwick Road ·
Yamanto Qld 4305
Sherwood Pty Ltd (NATA approved) Ferndale Road
Bundanoon NSW 2578
NATA approved centres-National Association of Testing Authorities approved as at 1/1/91.
BY AUTHORITY
V. R. WARD, GOVERNMENT PRINTER, QUEENSLAND-1991
122124
