ATV/UTV Safety

Vehicle operators must be educated and responsible to incorporate safe work practices to prevent injuries from overturns, not wearing seat belts, operating on steep or uneven terrain, not keeping body parts inside the machine, and failure to inspect prior to use.

Complete HSI Intro to Off-Road Vehicle Safety: ATVs and UTVs online training and hands-on operator training provided by a lead/supervisor.

Pre-Use Inspection

ALWAYS perform a vehicle Pre-Use inspection in accordance with the equipment manufacturer specifications before operating the vehicle.

At minimum Pre-Use inspection must include:

  • Walk around the vehicle and carefully visually inspect
  • Check wheels and tires
    • Look for nicks, cuts, gouges, missing lug nuts, proper inflation, and condition of tread
  • Vehicle fluids are at proper levels.
  • Check for leaks, puddles, unusual odors or noises, and other indicators of problems
  • Check operation of headlamps, tail lamps, brake lights, turn signals, etc.
  • Side and rear view mirrors are in good condition (e.g., not cracked, fogged, loose, or dirty).
  • Look for any loose or missing parts.
  • Look for any visibly defective items or damage.
  • Ensure presence and operation (as applicable) of safety devices.
  • Check brakes: make sure they work smoothly without noise or pulling.
  • Make sure the parking brakes hold!!!
  • Check slow moving vehicle emblem: in place, clean, and visible when needed
  • Check that equipment, cargo, and supplies are adequately secured
  • Inspect personal protective equipment (PPE) required to operate the vehicle.

Note: If any safety violations are found during the inspection that are critical to safe operation:

  1. The equipment must not be used until repaired
  2. Report to lead/supervisor and/or responsible person for the vehicle and provide them the vehicle keys to prevent use by others.
  3. Place a tag on the steering wheel with “DO NOT USE” or
    "EQUIPMENT OUT OF ORDER"

Resources:

.110 Industrial and Utility Mobile Equipment Policy
ATV Safety Institute T-CLOC Pre-Ride Inspection Checklist
Generic Pre-Use Inspection
John Deer Pre-Use Inspection Checklist
Polaris Owner's Manuals