In January 2003, the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) issued the following media statement outlining its initiatives to reduce the injuries associated with quad bikes on farms in Australia.
SafetyAtWorkBlog is following up with the FCAI for further information on quad bike safety and any objections the FCAI has to roll-over protection structures. An earlier article on quad bike safety is available HERE.
“The peak industry body representing the major motorcycle and All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) distributors has reinforced its support for on-going safety campaigns to help reduce ATV accidents.
The FCAI Motorcycle Group is concerned that a number of recent ATV accidents may have been the result of overloading or a lack of understanding of ATV operation.
The FCAI strongly recommends ATV operators should adhere to the following safety measures based on ATV manufacturers’ instructions:
- always wear a helmet
- do not carry passengers
- do not exceed recommended maximum load and towing capacities
- comply with the manufacturer’s recommended minimum user age for the vehicle
- never operate an ATV under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- follow the manufacturer’s maintenance procedures
The FCAI advises ATV operators who do not have a copy of the manufacturer’s instructions to seek a replacement from their nearest dealer.
The FCAI said recognising the risks associated with overloading an ATV and the dangers of carrying a passenger could significantly reduce ATV accidents.
“Appropriate speed for conditions and avoidance of riding on steep slopes could also further reduce ATV accidents,” said Mr Peter Sturrock, chief executive of the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries.
An average of 10,000 ATVs have been imported annually into Australia over the past five years, according to figures from the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries.
“Some ATVs are designed for competition and recreational riding but the greater majority of ATVs imported to Australia are agricultural ATVs sold directly to the farming sector,” Peter Sturrock added.
The FCAI Motorcycle Group has been actively involved in the promotion of ATV safety to consumers since 1997.
The Group committed $25,000 production costs to the first edition of a safety video “You and Your ATV” in 1998.
The video focuses on safe and responsible riding practices for ATVs and includes safe loading and securing methods.
More than 35,000 copies have been distributed free to ATV purchasers and owners.
The FCAI Motorcycle Group allocated $29,000 in 2002 to a second edition of the video.
The Group also provided expert advice and assistance to the development of an ATV Training Course for TAFE farm students.
The FCAI has also provided the services of its Motorcycle Manager Ray Newland to attend meetings of state and federal WorkCover Authorities for examination and progress of ATV safety issues.
In November of last year, the FCAI conducted a ‘field day’ for key national stakeholders involved with ATV safety.
The FCAI represents ATV importer/distributors Honda, Kawasaki, Polaris, Suzuki and Yamaha.”
quad bikes can be dangerous and nobody should be riding them without the correct safety gear. Sadly many people do however, and accidents do happen as a result.
I note that Ray Newland has retired from the FCAI at the age of 69. He specifically refers to the production of “You and Your ATV” as a highpoint of his time with FCAI.
Bikepoint.com.au reports that
Honda’s work range of quad bikes have no ROPS –