Rollovers, runovers and the PTO — the three that keep killing
Tractors are one of the deadliest machines on New Zealand farms — WorkSafe reports that, on average, more than five people are killed each year using farm tractors. The three big killers are rollover, runover (getting off a moving tractor), and power take-off (PTO) entanglement. A roll-over protective structure (ROPS) with the seatbelt worn is the critical control, alongside guarded PTOs, never getting off until the tractor is stopped, and proper training.
Most tractor deaths fall into three patterns. Rollover — sideways or backwards — crushes the operator unless a roll-over protective structure and worn seatbelt keep them in a safe zone. Runover happens when someone gets off a moving tractor to save time, or falls while mounting or dismounting. PTO entanglement draws in clothing or limbs at the power take-off shaft. Add slopes, front loaders and distraction, and the risk multiplies.
| Control | What it looks like |
|---|---|
| ROPS + seatbelt | Keep a roll-over protective structure fitted and in good condition, and always wear the seatbelt when the tractor has a ROPS. Keep the ROPS, belt and anchor points sound — a person died because a corroded ROPS failed. |
| Never get off a moving tractor | Before getting off — even to open a gate — put it in neutral, apply the brakes and disengage the PTO. If you leave it, shut off the engine. Make sure it has stopped and cannot move. |
| Guard the PTO | Keep PTO shafts and connections guarded, and stay clear while the PTO is engaged. |
| On and off safely | Keep three points of contact, get off facing the tractor, never jump on or off a moving tractor, and keep the steps clean. |
Use counterbalance weights where needed, and take care with a front loader — it changes the tractor's centre of gravity. On slopes, don't drive diagonally; turn uphill when working across a slope, and pick the gentlest line straight down. Take special care near creeks and drop-offs. Don't carry passengers unless the tractor has an instructor seat, ROPS and a seatbelt. Manage the PTO as machinery — see machine guarding — and read alongside quad bikes & side-by-sides and farm health and safety.
Give every tractor operator thorough training, and make sure anyone without the knowledge or experience is supervised by an experienced person. Induct workers and contractors on the risks, the controls and your farm rules and safe work procedures. WorkSafe's Approved Code of Practice covers roll-over protective structures on tractors; new tractors should have the manufacturer's ROPS fitted at the point of sale.
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Very. WorkSafe reports that on average more than five people are killed each year in New Zealand using farm tractors. The main causes are rollover, runover from getting off a moving tractor, and power take-off entanglement.
A roll-over protective structure (ROPS) with the seatbelt worn. Together they keep the operator in a protected zone if the tractor rolls. Keep the ROPS, seatbelt and anchor points in good condition.
Because people are run over by their own tractor. Before getting off — even just to open a gate — put it in neutral, apply the brakes and disengage the PTO, and make sure it has stopped and cannot move.
Keep PTO shafts and connections guarded, stay clear while the PTO is engaged, and disengage it before getting off. Entanglement at the PTO causes severe and fatal injuries.
Only if the tractor has a proper instructor seat, a roll-over protective structure and a seatbelt for that seat. Otherwise, no passengers — an extra rider can be thrown off and run over.
