Crush protection devices for quad bikes

According to WorkSafe records, an average of five people die in work-related quad bike incidents every year. Between 2000 and 2017, this amounted to 81 quad bike accidental deaths.

Many of these incidents occurred when the quad bike rolled over and the worker was crushed by the weight of the vehicle. While training on the safe operation of a quad bike is essential and can save lives, even the most experienced operators can find themselves in life threatening situations.

One way to mitigate the risk of crush-injuries or fatalities is to fit quad bikes with crush protection devices (CPD). When correctly fitted, CPDs provide a survivable space for the operator should they become pinned underneath the vehicle.

WorkSafe released a policy clarification in June this year, which sets out its expectations on installing CPDs on workplace quad bikes.

Currently it is not a legal requirement to install a CPD on a workplace quad bike, however WorkSafe strongly recommends this is done. Particularly for environments such as farms where the worker is travelling on hilly or uneven ground, rutted tracks or is dividing their attention between several tasks at once.

WorkSafe recommends that alternative vehicles (like a ute) should be used where possible, however it acknowledges this is not always possible. It recommends that CPDs should be professionally designed and manufactured and fitted according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Keeping training and knowledge up-to-date is also essential, as is always wearing a helmet.

ACC is currently working with WorkSafe to design a targeted subsidy for the purchase of CPDs. The proposed subsidy will likely be launched towards the end of July 2019.

Axiom provides quad bike training. The course teaches operators the knowledge, skills and attributes for all essential areas of the units of competency covered under the best practice guidelines for quad bike riding in the workplace. We also provide training for light and heavy 4WD vehicles.