New quad bike rules now in effect will force Irish farmers to wear helmets

New rules for farmers and others who use quad bikes and all terrain vehicles (ATVs) have come into effect. 

The new regulations - which are the first of its kind in Europe - require people to wear helmets and undergo registered safety training in order to driver ATVs. 

The changes came into effect yesterday (Monday November 20) to attempt to tackle the significant number of fatalities and injuries occurring on ATVs. 

According to the Health and Safety Authority (HSA), vehicles continue to be the biggest killers on Irish farms, with 12 quad bike fatalities out of a total of 64 farm vehicle fatalities between 2008 and 2017. 

The main mode of quad bike deaths in agriculture during this time period include being trapped (33%), impact against an object (25%), being crushed (17%), striking ground (17%), and striking another vehicle (8%). 

Contributory factors or causes of fatalities and injuries can include a lack of formal training or experience, a lack of or incorrect head protection, excessive speed, the age of the operator, or carrying a passenger. 

Risks also include carrying unbalanced loads, tipping on a bank, ditch, rut or bump, loss of control on steep slopes, or poor maintenance of the vehicle. 

Farmers and others who use ATVs for work must complete a QQI ATV course (Level 5) or equivalent in order to continue using ATVs. 

The award will equip the learner with the relevant knowledge, skill and competence to drive and handle an ATV in a safe manner in compliance with relevant legislation. 

The duration of courses will generally be 1 day for experienced riders and 2 days for new entrants with a practice period between training days.

The ratio of trainer to trainee should be no greater than 1:4 persons and people undertaking ATV training should be 16 years or over and must wear appropriate head protection and other PPE. 

An information sheet on using ATVs in agriculture or forestry is available to view here.