Purpose
To define a process for the managing the operations of all off-road 4 wheel bikes used in conducting works conducted by Company, to minimise as far as reasonably practicable any associated risk to the health and safety of workers.
Scope
This procedure applies to all Company staff including- contractors, sub-contractors, apprentices, trainees, work experience students or volunteers.
Policy Statement
When selecting off road 4 wheel bikes for any type of job, prior to purchase, a risk assessment must be conducted to ensure you are buying the safest and most compliant fit for purpose off road 4 wheel bikes for the job. When conducting the risk assessment the hierarchy of controls is to be used for the ranking of the effectiveness.
Hierarchy of Controls
Elimination
Elimination should always be considered as the first option, within any risk assessment. Ask and research if the task can be completed in a different way or another method used that doesn’t require the use of an off-road 4 wheel bikes.
Substituting the Machine
Can the off-road 4 wheel bikes be replaced with a safer machine/vehicle that is capable of undertaking the same tasks, if not more and be a safer option?
Isolation
Is there any other equipment available to isolate the workers from using an off-road 4 wheel bikes for the tasks.
Engineering Measures
If you are unable to eliminate or substitute the machine you will have to ensure you implement engineering controls to make the off-road 4 wheel bikes are safe and fit for purpose. This could be with the introduction of a ROPS system and/or seatbelts. Side by Side vehicles is fitted with a ROPS system and seat belts.
Administration
Prior to introducing the off-road 4 wheel bikes into the workplace, you need to ensure the off-road 4 wheel bikes are used safely. This can be completed by the supervisor ensuring they are familiar with this procedure, the operator is competent in the use of the off-road 4 wheel bikes and by providing a safety familiarisation in the use of the off-road 4 wheel bikes. The operator must also be familiar with this procedure prior to operation.
Personal Protective Equipment
All operators who are required to drive/ride an off-road 4 wheel bikes are to wear the minimum PPE requirements for Company. All operators of a quad bike are to wear a safety motor-bike helmet fitted correctly that complies with AS 1698-2006 at all times.
Competency
All operators of an off-road 4 wheel bikes are to hold a current C class licence issued by the Department of Transport. The operator must also undertake a course to deem them competent in the operations of an off-road 4 wheel bikes by completing the Quad Bike Training Course that is recommended by the Queensland Government (WHSQ). Evidence of the operator’s qualification must be submitted to the supervisor prior to the operator riding/driving a quad or a Side-by-Side vehicle (off road 4 wheel bikes).
Age of Operators
At no time will a person under the age of 16 be allowed to operate any off-road 4 wheel bikes.
Operations
Before operating any off road 4 wheel bikes for the first time, the operator must read the safety section of the off-road 4 wheel bikes operating manual. Always start the off-road 4 wheel bikes safely. Avoid starting or running the off road 4 wheel bikes in an enclosed area. Read the operations manual to ensure the safest techniques for starting and stopping are adhered to. Most off-road 4 wheel bikes are registered for restricted use, so the operator must be familiar with the registration prior to operation. Restricted use registration is Lo6 (a) restricted to a designated route.
All operators and passengers sitting in a side by side must ensure they wear the fitted seatbelts when it is in operation. At no time is any person to stick any of their body parts outside of the limits of the off-road 4 wheel bikes when it is in motion.
During operations, there is the possibility that an operator has the potential of burning a part of their lower body on the muffler, so therefore operators must ensure at all times they are wearing long trousers to avoid an injury.
Limits of Terrain
Rollovers can occur when off road 4 wheel bikes are used in terrain that is not suitable for the capability of the bike or operator. Terrain that can pose a rollover risk for off-road 4 wheel bikes includes, but is not limited to slopes, rough and rocky ground, tussocky vegetation, contour bank, dam banks, unstable soil and rubbish. If the terrain is too steep or has a large slope the situation must be risk assessed.
Maintain Contact
Removing hands from handlebars or feet from footrests during operation can reduce your ability to control the off-road 4 wheel bikes or could cause you to lose your balance and fall from the off-road 4 wheel bikes.
During normal operation, always keep both hands on the handlebars and both feet on the footrests. This is important to maintain your balance and to control the off-road 4 wheel bikes. Removing even one hand from the handlebars or one foot from the footrests can reduce your ability to control the off-road 4 wheel bikes or could cause you to lose your balance and fall.
Operation Speed
When operating off-road 4 wheel bikes for work-related purposes the operator must select the appropriate gear for the speed control. Excessive speed increases the potential of a crash. State road rules and/or otherwise signed speed limits must be obeyed during operations.
Operation in reverse gear
Improper operation in reverse gear could cause you to hit an obstacle or person behind you, resulting in serious injury. Applying only the rear brake abruptly when operating in reverse gear could cause the front wheels to lift off the ground resulting in the bike overturning backwards.
If you need to ride in reverse, make sure the area behind you is clear and only operate the off-road 4 wheel bikes at low speed keeping vigilant at all times. Ensure you always bring the off-road 4 wheel bikes to a complete stop before reversing to allow for you to conduct an observation of the immediate area prior to reversing.
Operation through water
Some off-road 4 wheel bikes are fitted with tyres that may have some ability to float. But it is recommended that no operator drives an off-road 4 wheel bikes through any water that comes above 250mm in depth.
If you are required to cross a stream you should conduct a risk assessment. Once it is deemed safe to cross you should:
- Make sure the water is not too deep or flowing too fast;
- Choosing a path where both banks have gradual slopes;
- Proceed through the water at a slow, steady speed;
- Watch out for submerged obstacles and slippery rocks;
- Avoid getting the spark plug or air cleaner wet, as this could cause the engine to stop;
- After leaving the water, always test both the front and rear brakes. Riding through water can make the brakes less effective than normal, and may reduce braking ability. If necessary, apply the brakes repeatedly until they dry out and operate normally. If the brakes do not regain effectiveness, and off-road 4 wheel bikes is equipped with drum brakes there may be water trapped in the drum.;
- Stop the off-road 4 wheel bikes and follow the procedures in the owner’s operating manual for draining the brake drum(s).
Braking
Skidding improperly during braking may cause loss of control of the off-road 4 wheel bikes. There may also be an unexpected regaining of traction which may cause the off-road 4 wheel bikes to overturn.
Off-road 4 wheel bikes can be equipped with various brakes and drive configurations. Some off-road 4 wheel bikes have separate front and rear brake controls, and some are fitted with 4WD. The brake and drive configuration interact with each other and will affect how the off-road 4 wheel bikes behave under braking. Read the owner’s operating manual for the model of the off-road 4 wheel bikes you are operating to become familiar with the operation of its braking system.
Although the front and rear brakes may have separate controls, for off-road 4 wheel bikes equipped with four-wheel drive all four wheels are interconnected when the off-road 4 wheel bikes are in the 4WD mode. Operating any brake control in the 4WD mode will cause braking at both the front and rear wheels.
Applying the brakes too hard may cause the wheels to lock and slide, reducing control of the off-road 4 wheel bikes. If this happens, release the brake controls, steer straight ahead until you regain control, and then reapply the brakes more gently.
Riding with a foot resting on the brake pedal or hands on the brake levers may overheat the brakes, reducing their effectiveness.
Turning
Turning improperly can make the off-road 4 wheel bikes lose control, causing a collision or overturn and sliding improperly during turning may cause loss of control.
Traction may also be regained unexpectedly, which may cause the off-road 4 wheel bikes to overturn.
To make a turn on level ground:
- Steer the handlebar and lean your body toward the inside of the turn.
- Leaning helps balance the off-road 4 wheel bikes, and it feels more comfortable.
- Leaning into a turn is an important technique to master in riding the off-road 4 wheel bikes.
To make a sharp turn at low speed:
- It helps to shift your body slightly forward on the seat, and lean inside, as you steer the handlebar.
- Shifting weight forward allows the rear wheels to turn easier, and it also improves front-wheel steering.
- To make a turn from a full stop: Apply the throttle gradually when you start up and turn at the same time. Remember to shift your body forward to make sharp low-speed turns and whenever you turn whilst accelerating from a full stop. Lean your body to the inside of a turn and forward. If you’re off road 4 wheel bikes skids sideways during a turn, steer in the direction of the skid. Avoid hard braking or accelerating until you have regained directional control.
Riding Up Hills
Operating on excessively steep hills can cause the off-road 4 wheel bikes to overturn more easily than operation on level surfaces or small hills, climbing hills improperly could cause loss of control or cause the off-road bike to overturn. Before undertaking the task of climbing or riding up a steep incline/hill the operator must undertake a risk assessment.
The off-road 4 wheel bikes ability to safely climb hills largely depends on the rider’s skill and judgment. When climbing hills, you must shift your weight toward the front wheels to help keep them on the ground. To do this, shift your body slightly forward on the seat and lean forward.
Stalling the Off-Road Bike and/or Rolling Backwards
If you incorrectly estimate climbing capability or terrain conditions, the off-road 4 wheel bikes may not have enough power or traction to continue uphill. If this happens, the off-road 4 wheel bikes can stall and/or roll backwards. If this happens to you and it is safe to do so, stop the off-road 4 wheel bikes, get off while holding the brakes, shift the gear into neutral, set the parking brake and turn the engine off. This will allow you to assess the situation and call for assistance. Refer to the owners operating manual for the specific off road 4 wheel bikes you are operating to be familiar with the process they recommend for the situation.
Riding Down Hills
It’s usually advisable to descend hills with the off-road 4 wheel bikes pointed straight downhill. Avoid angles that would cause the vehicle to lean sharply to one side. Going down a hill incorrectly could cause loss of control or cause the off-road 4 wheel bikes to overturn. Always read the owner’s operating manual for the off-road bike to ensure the correct and safe techniques are followed.
Crossing or Turning on Hills or Slopes
Riding on hills or slopes is different from riding on level terrain. Be careful when riding on any hill. To maintain balance and stability when riding across a slope, you need to shift weight toward the uphill side of the vehicle. To do this, move your body off the centre of the seat and lean toward the uphill side.
Riding Over Obstacles
Before operating in a new area, check for obstacles. Watch out for bumps, rain ruts, potholes and other obstacles in the terrain. When you approach any obstacle, reduce your speed and are prepared to stop. Never try to ride over large obstacles, such as large rocks or fallen logs.
Parking
An improperly parked off road 4 wheel bikes may roll away and could cause injury to the operator and/or bystanders.
Normal parking includes:
- Look for a level parking area. Make sure the ground surface is firm;
- After bringing your off-road 4 wheel bikes to a stop, hold the brakes whilst you shift into “neutral” or “park” if provided;
- Set the parking brake;
- Turn the ignition switch OFF;
- If you are through riding for the day, turn the fuel valve OFF;
- Remove your key from the ignition.
- Always ensure off road 4 wheel bikes are parked safely away in an enclosed secured area.
Off road / Sealed road Use
Operating off-road 4 wheel bikes on sealed surfaces may seriously affect handling and control of the off-road 4 wheel bikes. Off-road 4 wheel bikes are generally designed and manufactured for off-road use and their tyres are not made for public roads. Riding on sealed surfaces may affect the handling and control.
Failure to use extra care when operating an off-road 4 wheel bikes on unfamiliar terrain could result in the bike overturning and/or the operator losing control. So before riding in a new area, always conduct a risk assessment and visibly check the terrain or check if visibility is limited. (It’s sometimes difficult to see obstructions like hidden rocks, bumps, or holes in time to react.) At no time is a quad bike to be ridden on a public road. The only off-road 4 wheel bikes that are permitted to drive on a public road are side by sides that have concessional registration to do so.
Weather Conditions
Operating an off-road 4 wheel bikes in very hot and/or very cold and occasionally wet conditions can have very significant impacts on the health and safety of operators.
PCBU’s have a duty of care to ensure that workers carrying out work in extremes of heat or cold are able to carry out work without risk to health and safety. Working in heat can cause significant health and safety problems due to heat stress.
There are risks associated with off road 4 wheel bikes operation in very cold weather as well. Very low temperatures can cause the hands and feet to become numb and/or stiff, resulting in a reduced ability to operate the controls. Frozen and/or icy terrain typically provides less traction, increasing the possibility of a loss of control.
Controls that can be put in place for operators working in hot Conditions can be but are not limited to:
- changing working hours to avoid working during the hottest part of the day;
- decreasing the workload in very hot conditions;
- balance and pace work throughout the day;
- ensuring that all work breaks are taken and allowing extra breaks if necessary;
- ensuring an adequate and easily accessible supply of clean and cool water throughout the day; and
- ensuring all workers understand the risks of working in the heat, the signs and symptoms that indicate heat exhaustion and heat stroke and the importance of drinking even when not thirsty.
Controls that can be put in place for operators working in cold conditions can be but are not limited to:
- warming up and warming down at the start and finish of work;
- wearing suitable clothing that stays warm when wet with perspiration;
- using a few layers of light warm clothing instead of one bulky jacket or similar this allows easy adjustment of clothing as the temperature changes during the day;
Outdoor workers should take the following precautions (in hot or cold conditions):
- wear sunglasses (UV protective safety glasses meeting the required AS/NZ Standard) for eye protection;
- use sunscreen on exposed parts of the body;
- use personal water canteens;
- drink 250 ml of water every half-hour
- ensure they have enough water on hand for the duration of the task.
The operation of off road 4 wheel bikes during wet conditions should not take place until a risk assessment has been conducted. If the risk assessment deems the task to be dangerous due to the conditions of the terrain, the off-road 4 wheel bikes are to remain parked up out of the wet weather. Operating in wet conditions can become a safety hazard and thus should be treated as so.
Off-road 4-wheeler bike labels
The operator of any off-road 4 wheel bikes when undertaking the equipment familiarisation must ensure they are familiar with fitted warning labels on the off-road bikes and their requirements.
Rider body movement
Body Movement can help to enhance an off-road 4 wheel bikes performance. It can also modify or enhance the dynamic characteristics of the vehicle to assist the intended manoeuvre or rider control activity. Use of the rider’s body may become more important as the performance limits (e.g., Maximum slope, limited traction, maximum roughness etc.) are approached. Much of the time, when the off-road 4 wheel bikes are ridden under typical conditions, there may be no benefit from rider body movement.
Rider body movements tend to be natural and instinctive. A rider normally would move his/her body for comfort and balance in a manoeuvre, (e.g. lean into a turn, lean forward when accelerating). Rider body movements can also before and after on the seat, side to side on the seat, or a combination of both. The rider can also stand on the footrests (i.e. “posting”) flexing his legs to further absorb terrain roughness.
Maintenance
It is crucial that all off-road 4 wheel bikes are well maintained to ensure they are safe and fit for use. A daily prestart inspection needs to be undertaken to allow for identifying any off road 4 wheel bikes defects. Pre-start checks are to be recorded using the Off Road 4 Wheel Bikes Daily Prestart Inspection Form. This will allow for the operator to record the meter readings to monitor the off road 4 wheel bikes mileage for any upcoming services. Refer to the owner’s operator’s manual for the required maintenance schedule and the correct safe way to remove parts from the off road 4 wheel bikes. When undertaking any maintenance always wear approved eye protection and any other PPE as required in the owner’s operator’s manual.
To reduce the possibility of a fire and/or explosion, be careful when working with and/or around petrol/unleaded fuels. Keep cigarettes, sparks, and flames away from all fuel-related parts. All major maintenance to an off road 4 wheel bikes is to be carried out by a qualified competent person.
Carbon Monoxide
The exhaust fumes of off road 4 wheel bikes, contains poisonous carbon monoxide gas that can cause loss of consciousness, serious illness and/or potentially lead to death.
Avoid starting and/or operating the off-road 4 wheel bikes, the engine in an enclosed area such as a garage or shed.
Burns
Before undertaking any regular maintenance requirements on off road 4 wheel bikes, ensure you allow for the muffler, engine, brakes and any other areas that heat up during operation to cool down. Touching these areas whilst still hot will potentially burn your body, so it is recommended that approved gloves are worn if the off-road 4 wheel bikes need to be touched before the cooling period.
Injury from moving parts
Ensure that the off-road 4 wheel bikes are shut down, remove the key from the ignition and tagged out accordingly on the ignition and/or key before undertaking any maintenance is undertaken. This will prevent the off-road 4 wheel bikes from accidentally starting preventing movement of parts and catching body parts.
Fuel
Prior to operation read the owner’s operators manual for the fuel requirements for the off-road 4 wheel bikes. To process for refuelling any off road 4 wheel bike is to:
- Turn off the off road 4 wheel bikes;
- Let the off road 4 wheel bikes cool down;
- At no time is anyone to smoke in the vicinity;
- The fuel cap is to always be replaced onto the fuel tank before starting the off road 4 wheel bikes;
- If any fuel is spilt whilst refuelling, ensure that the off road 4 wheel bikes are completely washed down using water to remove the residue of fuel.
Spilling fuel on the fuel tank and/or the off-road 4 wheel bikes can potentially come into contact with the operator’s body causing chemical burns. Leaving spilt fuel on the tank can also be a potential fire hazard to the off-road 4 wheel bikes.
Attachments
There are to be no attachments added to the off road 4 wheel bikes without the approval of the fleet department and in consultation with the safety department. All attachments must comply with the safety requirements of the off road 4 wheel bikes. Fitting of any attachments that do not comply renders the off road 4 wheel bikes unsafe and therefore it will be removed from service.
Passengers
If off-road 4 wheel bikes aren’t designed to carry passengers, there are to be no passengers allowed on board. Some off-road 4 wheel bikes have a longer seat to allow the rider to change body position, not for carrying passengers.
If the off-road 4 wheel bikes are designed to carry a passenger and it is essential that you need to carry the passenger you must ensure that the single passenger is:
- Using an approved AS helmet (if required);
- Wearing required personal protective equipment;
- Securely grasping hand holds and planting feet firmly on the footrests while seated in the passenger seat;
- Prepared to dismount and walk if the conditions require them to do so;
- Not undersized for the vehicle to the point that use of handholds and footrests is impossible;
- Is of the appropriate age for the off road 4 wheel bikes;
- Is wearing the fitted seatbelt;
- At no time is a passenger to sit on the front and rear cargo racks.
Carrying loads
Off-road 4 wheel bikes have a load limit for carrying loads and towing a trailer. The operator must become familiar with the load limit of the off-road 4 wheel bikes they are going to operate. When carrying a load it will affect how the off-road 4 wheel bikes handle and will greatly reduce its ability in accelerating, braking and making turns and other manoeuvres. Before carrying any cargo read the owner’s operating manual for the off-road 4 wheel bikes. If the off-road 4 wheel bikes are carrying any cargo it is to be restrained to reduce movement.
The operator must know the following load limits for each off-road 4 wheel bikes:
- maximum weight capacity;
- front cargo rack weight limit;
- rear cargo rack weight limit;
- tongue and rear cargo weight;
- tongue weight;
- tow weight limit.
When carrying cargo be sure to follow the following guidelines:
- Check that the tyres are properly inflated to the correct PSI;
- Do not place cargo anywhere on the off-road 4 wheel bikes other than on the front and rear racks. Otherwise, operating stability may be adversely affected;
- Load cargo on the rear rack as far forward as possible. Make sure cargo on the front rack does not interfere with handlebar movement;
- Do not allow cargo to extend beyond the edges of either the front or rear racks;
- Do not allow cargo to inhibit rider separation in the event of overturning;
- Do not allow cargo to inhibit rider view;
- Make sure all cargo is secured before operating the off-road 4 wheel bikes;
- Balance cargo weight evenly, on both sides of the front and rear cargo racks;
- Never exceed the maximum weight limit prescribed in the owner’s operating manual;
- Allow extra room for starting, stopping and turning whenever you carry cargo;
- Avoid riding on steep slopes when carrying cargo.
Use of spray units
Some work areas of Flinders Shire Council use off road 4 wheel bikes to carry spray units for weed control. Prior to the off-road 4 wheel bikes carrying any spray unit, a risk assessment must be conducted to ensure that the equipment is compliant to the specific off road 4 wheel bikes and it is safe to undertake the task. The safety department will be able to assist any department with the completion of a risk assessment.
Any spray tank that is to be fitted to an off-road 4 wheel bikes, must be, but is not limited to:
- Must be baffled;
- Must be suitable for the off-road 4 wheel bikes;
- Must comply with the load limit requirements for the off-road 4 wheel bikes;
- Not hinder the visibility of the operator;
- Tank must have round edges;
- Tank must have correct tie down lugs;
- Must be fitted correctly using correct safe tie-down techniques.
At any time an off-road 4 wheel bikes are fitted with a spray unit to carry chemicals, the operator must be supplied with a current up to date Safety Data Sheet for the chemical. This must be carried on the off-road 4 wheel bikes at all times whilst using the chemical. The operator must be trained and deemed competent to spray chemicals. Tanks can be purchased with baffles already installed or ball baffles can be purchased and placed in a spray unit that is used on an off-road 4 wheel bikes. The installation of ball baffles can be undertaken prior to purchase or added after purchase.
Towing a trailer
Towing a trailer behind the road 4 wheel bikes is the same as carrying cargo, it will affect the ability of the off-road 4 wheel bikes. Never tow a trailer if the off-road 4 wheel bikes are not fitted to do so. The trailer can only be towed using a trailer hitch, at no time is a trailer to be towed using a rope or cable to the rear rack. When carrying cargo on the trailer ensure it is distributed across the trailer to ensure the stability of the trailer. Never cross a slope when towing a trailer and avoid riding on steep slopes.
Other traffic users
It is recommended that quad bikes do not interact with traffic due to their size and other traffic users not seeing them. Side by side bikes is to be fitted with orange flashing lights to warn motorists of their approach. In areas where off-road 4 wheel bikes are used, they are to be fitted with a UHF device to enable positive communication between workers on site and/or other users. All operators are to be wearing High Vis PPE. Off road 4 wheel bikes are to give way to all other traffic on any work site. Quad bikes are not permitted on a public road.
Transporting
At no time is an off-road 4 wheel bikes to be towed behind a vehicle and/or machine. When transporting the off-road 4 wheel bikes it is recommended that it is transported in its normal operating position, with all four wheels on the surface. At no time is the off-road 4 wheel bikes to be inclined onto its rear end. To transport an off-road 4 wheel bikes you must:
- Set the parking brake and place the transmission in gear;
- Secure the off 4 wheel road bikes with approved AS tie-down straps;
- Rock the off road 4 wheel bikes backwards and forwards to make sure the tie down straps are tight and the bike is secure.
- At no time is an ordinary rope to be used to transport an off-road 4 wheel bikes.
Ramp construction
Always use a ramp with a load rating that will be more than sufficient to bear the combined weight of the road 4 wheel bikes, rider and cargo. Under most circumstances, a ramp with a load rating of at least 500kg should be sufficient. However and by way of example, a ramp with a 700kg load rating is desirable if the combination of the road 4 wheel bikes, rider and cargo is close to 500kg. Metal bi-fold or trifold loading ramps are preferred over ramps constructed of wood, which may not be able to support the weight of the off-road 4 wheel bikes and rider. The width of the ramp should be greater than that of the off-road 4 wheel bikes. The surface of the loading ramp should provide sufficient traction to avoid wheel spin or side slipping of the off-road 4 wheel bikes while loading.
Securing the ramp
When loading an off-road 4 wheel bikes, if its front tyres are on the vehicle and/or trailer onto which it is being loaded and the rear tyres spin, an unsecured loading ramp can be spun out from under the off-road 4 wheel bikes causing it to flip over backwards crushing the rider.
Never utilise a loading ramp that is not secured to the vehicle or trailer onto which the off-road 4 wheel bikes are being loaded. Securing mechanisms include engaging pins and mating holes, safety chains, “tie downs” and others. Always ensure that the securing mechanism does not allow backwards movement of the loading ramp under any loading conditions.
Loading ramp angle
It may be possible to reduce the angle between the ground and the loading ramp by choice of the loading area. This can be accomplished by placing the vehicle or trailer in a relatively low area such as a ditch, or the off-road 4 wheel bikes in a relatively high area.
Securing
The off-road 4 wheel bikes should always be secured to prevent forwards or backwards and side to side movement during transport. The fuel switch and ignition should be shut off.
PPE
All operators who are required to operate off road 4 wheel bikes are to wear the minimum PPE requirements required by Isaac Regional Council in accordance with the PPE Procedure. Although complete protection is not possible, wearing proper gear can reduce the chance of injury. No PPE is to be loose fitting where it has the potential to become lodged in a moving part. All operators must ensure they are wearing approved AS/NZ steel cap boots.
All operators of off-road 4 wheel bikes that are not fitted with a safety cage and seatbelts must ensure they wear a safety motor-bike helmet fitted correctly that complies with AS 1698-2006 at all times. The helmet must be correctly fitted to the operator, if the helmet is too loose it is to be replaced with one that fits the operator.
Helmets must be inspected in the daily prestart inspection for any defects. At any time it is discovered that the helmet has a minor defect it is to be tagged out accordingly and replaced with a new helmet. Any helmets involved in an incident where it has received a hard knock must be replaced.
If at any time the Australian Standard sticker that is located on the helmet is removed, this voids the helmet and it must be removed from operations and replaced with a new compliant helmet.
Noise
Exposure to excessive noise levels for prolonged periods of time can cause permanent hearing damage. PCBU’s must manage risks to health and safety relating to hearing loss associated with noise and ensure that the noise that a worker is exposed to at the workplace does not exceed the exposure standard for noise. For off-road 4 wheel bikes this could include ensuring that the off-road 4 wheel bikes original equipment and exhaust system has not been damaged or modified, and is in good working order. Operators are required to wear appropriate AS/NZ hearing protection
Defects
At any time during the prestart inspection or daily operations a defect is discovered or occurs, the off-road 4 wheel bikes are to be parked safely, shut down, key removed and tagged out accordingly. The operator is to contact their supervisor immediately to inform them of the defect. If the supervisor cannot be contacted they are to render assistance from the local workshop. At no time is the operator to undertake any maintenance works they are not competent in the undertaking.
Accessories and modifications
Modifying the off-road 4 wheel bikes can deem it unsafe. Before making any modifications or adding accessories the owners operating manual must be read and complied with. Do not add any electrical equipment that will exceed the vehicles electrical system capacity.
Abuse of Off-road 4-wheeler bikes
At no time is the operator to abuse the operation of the off-road 4 wheel bikes. There are to be no attempts at performing any stunts, jumps and/or wheel stands. Anyone seen abusing the operation of an off-road 4 wheel bikes is to be reported to the Safety Department immediately.
Risk of tampering
During daily operations and after hours there is a risk of off road 4 wheel bikes being tampered with by other workers and/or a member of the public due to their security.
When finishing work for the day always:
- Park the off-road 4 wheel bikes in a safe and secure location;
- Always remove the keys from the ignition.
Prior to operations the next day:
- Always conduct a pre-start inspection daily
- This should alleviate any incidents occurring from the off-road 4 wheel bikes being tampered with.
Incidents
Any incident that occurs and/or involves an off-road 4 wheel bikes must be reported to the supervisor of the department and the WHS Department, as soon as possible. After the initial phone call notification, the incident can be logged on the approved incident report.
Training
All operators must complete and be deemed competent in the course; Quad Bike Training that is recommended by the Queensland Government (WHSQ). This training is to be arranged by the relevant department that uses the off-road 4 wheel bikes through IRC’s training department. Evidence of the qualifications is to be submitted to the supervisor prior to the operator riding/driving a quad or a Side-by-Side vehicle.
Documentation
- Vehicle Inspection Checklist
- Incident Report
- Relevant User Manual
- JSEA
Legislation
- Work Health and Safety Act 2011
- Work Health and Safety Regulations 2011
- AS 1698-2006
Definitions
ATV– All-Terrain Vehicle
Caution – Guidance as to potential risk and ways, you can be hurt if you don’t follow instructions
Cargo – The freight/goods carried on vehicles
Competent Person – A person who has, through a combination of training, education and experience, acquired knowledge and skills enabling that person to perform a specified task correctly.
Contractors – A person, organisation or entity that performs a specific act or acts including the provision of services and/or materials to another person, organisation or entity under an agreement enforceable by law at an Company controlled workplace, that is not an employee, volunteer or work experience person.
HSR’s – Health and Safety Representatives
Job Safety Analysis (JSA) – A Job Safety Analysis is an evaluation of a specific job to identify potential hazards involved in the role and to document how the job can be performed safely
Off-Road 4 Wheel Bikes – For the purpose of this procedure off road 4 wheel bikes includes:
- Quad Bike
- Side by Side bike
PCBU – Person conducting a business or undertaking
PPE – Personal Protective Equipment
Quad Bike – Specifically designed, motorised vehicle that operates on four low pressured, high floatation tyres. They have a saddle type seat that is designed for a single operator, handlebars for steering control and may be either a 2 – or 4- wheel drive.
Side by Side Vehicle – Refers to other small vehicles designed for off-road use. They often have a bench type seat, have a steering wheel and are designed to transport more than one person. They are also equipped with four (4) or more low-pressure high flotation tyres and generally have a tray-back designed for carrying small loads
SA – Safety Advisor
Supervisor – A person involved with the management or control of a workplace (eg foreman, supervisor, the person in charge or leading hand).
Worker – A person is a worker if the person carries out work in any capacity for a person conducting a business or undertaking, including work as- an employee, a contractor or subcontractor, an employee of a contractor or subcontractor, an employee of a labour-hire company who has been assigned to work in the persons’ business or undertaking, an outworker, an apprentice or trainee, a student gaining work experience, a volunteer or a person of a prescribed class.
Workplace – A workplace is a place where work is carried out for a business or undertaking and includes any place where a worker goes, or is likely to be, while at work. Place includes a vehicle, vessel, aircraft or other mobile structure, any waters and any installation on land, on the bed of any waters or floating on any waters.
4 Wheeler – A four-wheeled vehicle that seats one person and having four oversized tyres – Quad Bike