NAAC launches safety campaign urging ATV users to wear a helmet
2nd June 2023
The National Association of Agricultural Contractors (NAAC) is launching a social media campaign to raise awareness of the importance of wearing a helmet when riding a sit-astride ATV and is inviting farmers to share photos where they are wearing a helmet with the hashtag #wearitandshareit.
ATVs are the primary cause of death involving moving vehicles in agriculture, with 14 fatal incidents involving ATVs recorded in the last five years. Despite many other serious and life-threatening accidents happening all year round, there is still resistance among ATV users to wearing a helmet.
To prevent further injuries that would otherwise be easily avoidable, the NAAC is raising the question as to why anyone would put themselves, or their workers, at risk (and break the law) by not wearing a helmet on a sit-astride ATV.
Jill Hewitt, NAAC chief executive, commented: “ATV users should take pride in wearing a helmet to protect their safety and help minimise the risk of the worst possible news being delivered to their family if an incident occurs.
“It is a legal requirement to wear a helmet at work and if you leave it behind, you are more likely to suffer a serious head injury, or worse, if you come off,” she continued. “The NAAC is working with Logic helmets to provide a discount to members, removing any final excuses why a helmet would not be worn.”
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) confirmed helmet use will be a key element of investigating ATV-related incidents, with non-compliance potentially leading to prosecution. Enforcement action will also be taken if an inspector sees someone working without a helmet on farm.
The requirement of wearing a helmet concerns farmers, self-employed workers, employees and any other individuals using ATVs on farm, including children and visitors. It is also worthy of note that most farm quads are manufactured for use by riders aged 16 and over. It is illegal for any ATV to be driven for a farming activity by children under the age of 13.
While wearing a helmet is vitally important, it will not provide sufficient protection if the user lacks competence and training in handling the machine. Adequate training is crucial for obtaining the essential skills and techniques necessary for the safe operation of ATVs.
The NAAC is urging all farmers and contractors to support its #WearItandShareIt social media campaign and help raise awareness of ATV safety by posting a photo to spread the message.
