WORKSAFE Victoria has commenced activities to help reduce the risks associated with quad bike rollovers.
Starting this month, WorkSafe will conduct inspections in workplaces which use quad bikes, and if a risk of roll over is identified, and an employer does not take reasonably practicable measures to control the risk, an improvement notice may be issued.
An assessment of what tasks the quad bike is used for and where it operates will be undertaken, to determine whether there is a risk of rollover.
Anyone who fails to comply with an improvement notice may be prosecuted for breaching the Occupational Health and Safety Act.
Victorian Finance Minister Robin Scott reminded farmers to observe the safe use of quad bikes and to take advantage of the $6 million quad bike rebate scheme.
“WorkSafe enforcement activities are now underway. I urge farmers to take advantage of the quad bike rebate scheme to help keep themselves, their employees and their families safe,” Mr Scott said.
“Quad bikes are used in many workplaces and employers must make sure that reasonably practicable safety measures are in place. Nothing is more important than workplace safety.”
So far, the rebate scheme has paid out almost $2.8 million to either fit suitable rollover protection devices on quad bikes or to help pay for more appropriate vehicles.
WorkSafe acting executive director Health and Safety Paul Fowler said they would continue to assist farmers and other workplaces in managing the risks associated with quad bikes.
“A WorkSafe enforcement notice may not be welcomed by some, but it is nothing compared to the trauma of dealing with a fatality or serious injury that may result if the risks associated with quad bike use are not fully addressed,” he said.
Source: WorkSafe Victoria

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