These are the kinds of risky work practices that have to change, if we are to stop the toll of deaths and injuries caused by tractors. I hope as many farmers as possible will read this booklet, and put the safe work practices in these pages into practice. The most serious accidents generally occur when a tractor rolls sideways or back-flips, crushing the operator beneath it, or against a tree or farm structure. In all of these accidents, a ROPS or cab, combined with a seat-belt and a seat with a back support, would have protected the operator from serious injury. One in every five tractor deaths in Australia has occurred by the operator falling or climbing off a moving tractor, and being run over by the tractor or by towed machinery.
Unguarded power take-offs can grab clothing, causing horrific injuries and death.
Passengers and children riding on tractors without ROPS or seat-belt protection are frequent victims in tractor accidents, usually by falling off and being run over. Other times accidents occur are when tractors are being maintained and repaired. Accidents sometimes involve bystanders, including children. 75 per cent of operators in accidents had more than five years experience on tractors. 60 per cent of all tractor accidents occurred on slopes of less than five degrees.