Safety alert as tractor toll rises

Since 2020, almost 100 people have been injured in incidents involving tractors in Tasmania as authorities reiterate safety messages around the commonly used farm machinery.

In the state, there have been 99 tractor incidents reported since 2020, with WorkSafe Tasmania saying the same number of people have been injured in those incidents and crashes.

During that same period, two people have died while using tractors - one in 2020, the result of a tractor rollover whilst feeding cattle on a steep/slippery part of a farm and the second in 2023, where a rollover occurred whilst doing garden maintenance at a hospitality location.

Of the reported injuries, WorkSafe Tasmania said 30 occurred whilst the worker was entering or exiting the tractor, 27 resulted from operation of the tractor, 21 resulted from loading, maintaining or otherwise preparing the tractor for operation, 11 were due to tractor rollover or collision - including both fatalities - and 10 resulted from being struck by a moving tractor.

“Tractors can be essential equipment in some workplaces, but they also come with risks,” a WorkSafe Tasmania spokesperson said.

“Tractor safety saves lives.

“Nationally and at state level, tractors and quad bikes continue to be the main cause of death on farms, and it's extremely important we continue to have conversations around the safe operation of tractors, quad bikes and side by sides.

“The effects that injuries and fatalities have on farming communities and families are significant.”

WorkSafe Tasmania said “tractors are powerful machines that can pose significant risks if not operated safely.”

“Operators must be familiar with the tractor. Pre-start checks are essential to ensure everything is in working order.

“Report any faults or concerns to your employer.

“Before starting the tractor, ensure all levers are in the neutral position, the park brake is engaged, and the clutch and PTO drive are disengaged.”

Tractor operators were also urged to drive at slow speeds in case they came across unexpected hazards.

“Be familiar with your surroundings and avoid slopes that are too steep for safe operation,” WorkSafe Tasmania said.

“Wear a seat belt and ensure you have a ROPS fitted to the machine.”

WorkSafe Tasmania also urged tractor operators to be familiar with their surroundings and let someone know where they are going and when they intend to return.

“When stopping the tractor, park on level ground, disengage the PTO and lower all implements, place control levers in the neutral position, apply the park brake, turn off the engine and remove the key.

“Stay in the Protective Zone, always stay seated and use handholds when mounting