AHCMOM217: Operate Quad Bike

Who would select this course?

This course is has been developed and contextualised for employees or contractors who are required to operate and maintain a Quad Bike as part of their daily duties.

What is the difference of a ATV to a UTV?

An All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV), also known as a quad, has three wheels, or four wheels, is defined as a vehicle that travels on low pressure tyres, with a seat that is straddled by the operator, along with handlebars for steering control. As the name implies, it is designed to handle a wider variety of terrain than most other vehicles.

The Side by SideUtility Vehicle’s (SSUV) have a seating arrangement with seat belts, roll over protection and a cargo box at the rear of the vehicle. The SSUV’s generally have a higher payload capability and are longer and wider than ATV’s.

Safety

Quad Bikes have many and varied uses and their unique attributes have made them a valuable resource in many industries, particularly on farms, where they have largely replaced horses and able to access terrain that 4WD vehicle may not.

However, as with any other type of vehicle, their safe use cannot be taken for granted. Rather, it is the responsibility of all stakeholders to take all available steps to promote Quad Bike safety.

Risk Factors

Known risk factors associated with Quad Bike deaths and serious injury on Australian farms and workplace environments include human and behavioural factors, machine factors and environmental factors.

Legal Issues

In addition to the costs associated with injury and illness claims, Companies, Organisations, Farmers and for recreation use, need to be aware of their obligations under occupational health and safety law, and associated regulations in each state. Prosecution for breaches under these acts are costly, and a damaging interruption to a business.

Employers are required to ensure the health and safety of their employees and visitors to the workplace, to provide safe systems of work, to provide the necessary instruction, information and supervision to ensure safety, and to maintain a safe working environment.

Injury associated with Quad Bike used in Australia

There is a growing concern world-wide over the number of deaths and serious injury occurring in association with Quad Bike operation in the context of agricultural and company use, as well as in the context of recreation use of these vehicles.

The actual number of deaths associated with Quad Bike operation in Australia is not readily available. There are now more than 19 deaths associated with Quad Bike occurring each year in Australia.

Quad Bikes are not toys and can be hazardous to operate

These vehicles handle differently than other vehicles, such as motorcycles and cars. A collision or rollover can occur quickly, even during routine maneuvers like turning, or driving on hills or over obstacles, if you fail to take proper precautions.