Tractor, Quad Bike and Machinery Operation Procedure

Purpose. This procedure sets out the pre-start, operating and shut-down rules for tractors and attachments, quad bikes, side by side vehicles, mowers and landscape plant.

1.Scope and authorisation

This procedure applies to every item on the Plant and Equipment Register. A worker may operate an item only after completing the induction and competency sign-off for that item, which is recorded by the Irrigation and Plant Supervisor. Licences are required for road-registered vehicles and for high risk work such as telehandler operation.

2.Pre-start check

Before every shift the operator must complete the pre-start check for the machine, covering fluids, tyres, brakes, lights, guards, roll-over protection, seat belt, hitch and attachment pins, and any faults from the previous check. Faults that affect safety mean the machine is tagged out and reported. The completed check must be recorded on the machine's pre-start sheet.

• Fluids, fuel and coolant
• Tyres, brakes and steering
• Guards and power take-off shield
• Roll-over protection and seat belt
• Attachment security and hydraulics

3.Tractors and attachments

Operators must wear the seat belt whenever roll-over protection is fitted and must never carry passengers unless a passenger seat is fitted. The power take-off must be disengaged and the engine stopped before clearing blockages or working on attachments. Implements must be lowered to the ground before the operator leaves the seat. Slopes must be traversed with care and never with a raised load.

4.Quad bikes and side by side vehicles

Quad bikes must only be used on tracks and paddocks assessed as suitable, never on steep, wet or unfamiliar ground, and never with a passenger or an unsecured load. Helmets are mandatory. Side by side vehicles are the preferred option for carrying loads and for two-person tasks. Operators must log their route and check in when working alone.

5.Mowers, chainsaws and landscape plant

Ride-on and commercial mowers must have guards fitted and must not be operated on slopes above the manufacturer's limit. Chainsaws must only be operated by workers with chainsaw competency, wearing chaps, helmet, face shield, hearing protection and gloves. Exclusion zones must be set up around mowing, chainsaw and excavation work in public parks.

6.Shut-down and refuelling

Machines must be shut down, keys removed and attachments lowered before refuelling. Refuelling must take place at the designated point away from ignition sources. Faults, fuel used and hours must be recorded on the machine sheet at the end of the shift.

7.Records

Pre-start sheets are kept with each machine and filed monthly. Faults are entered against the item in the Plant and Equipment Register.