Farming unions call for ATV safety after seven fatalities
© Tim Scrivener UK farming unions have joined forces to raise awareness of the dangers of quad bikes and other all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), following a spate of fatalities in the past year.
As part of Farm Safety Week, the NFU, NFU Cymru, NFU Scotland and the Ulster Farmers’ Union have urged farmers to take precautions in order to reduce the number of serious injuries and fatalities that take place on farm.
A total of 27 fatalities were recorded in agriculture, forestry and fishing sectors by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) in 2024-25, with seven of those linked to the use of ATVs.
See also: NAAC launches online ATV safety campaign
Almost 600 farm-related incidents were also reported in the past year alone.
The farming unions have launched a four point message to encourage best practice on farm:
- A: Always wear a helmet
- T: Training
- V: Vehicle and maintenance checks
- S: Single rider only
Representatives from the four farming unions, said: “No one plans to have an accident, and you never know when one might happen.
“Whether you’re checking livestock or moving around the farm, the risks are real every time you get on an ATV.
“It’s vital to take life-saving steps like wearing a helmet, completing proper training, being competent and confident in handling the vehicle, and carrying out routine safety checks and maintenance.
“Safety must be our first thought and not the last. We all have a responsibility to protect ourselves, our families and our teams to make smart choices on farm.”
Obligation
The 1974 Health and Safety Act also creates a legal obligation for ATV users to wear personal protective equipment, such as helmets, and for training to be undertaken.
HSE inspector Wayne Owen said: “In the agricultural industry, ATVs remain one of the leading causes of work-related fatalities in Great Britain.
“In the past year alone, seven people died while using them and, tragically, two of them were children.
“No one under the age of 16 should operate adult-sized ATVs used in agriculture.
“However, the number of people killed while using ATVs in recent years is a stark reality and highlights the critical need for proper training, the use of safety equipment like helmets, having a well-maintained vehicle, and adhering to safe riding practices.
“Prioritising ATV safety can help prevent avoidable fatalities and protect the lives of those working in agriculture.”