TRACTOR OPERATION SAFETY
PREVENTING FALLS AND RUNOVERS

Falling off the tractor and being runover, either by the tractor or the implement being pulled, account for about a third of fatal and serious injuries involving tractors.

Causes of Falls and Runovers

• Being thrown off the operator seat when the tractor hits a hole, stump, or ditch.

• Extra Riders.

• “Jump” starting the tractor when standing beside it.

• Trying to mount or dismount when the tractor is moving.

• Slipping on the steps or platform when mounting or dismounting.

• Leaving the deck of the machine cluttered with tools and other items.

• Riding on the tongue or any part of the implement being towed.

• The operator not aware of where others are when the machine is started and put in motion.

• Leaving the parking brake off when parking the tractor especially on a slope.

• Poor maintenance of brakes and clutches.

• An operator’s foot slipping off the clutch when hitching implements or working on the machine.

• Poorly trained and physically unfit operators.

Preventing Falls and Runovers

1. Never bypass the safety start systems that do not allow the tractor to start in gear without depressing the clutch. When jump-starting a tractor, always connect cables to the battery and not the starter so as not to bypass the safety start system.

2. Do not allow extra riders. The ONLY time extra riders should be allowed is for training purposes.

3. Slow down on rough ground or where hidden obstacles might be encountered.

4. When going into a strange field or one that you have not been in for a while, stop and shut off the tractor and walk over potential problem areas.

5. Never try to mount or dismount a tractor or machine when it is moving. Keep platforms dry.

6. Always shut off the engine and apply the parking brake before dismounting the tractor.

7. Operators should take frequent rest breaks to maintain alertness.

8. Always start the tractor from the operator’s seat.

9. Train all operators thoroughly.

10. Maintain equipment in top operating condition.

11. Install ROPS (Roll Over Protective Structure), and seat belts! However if your tractor does not have ROPS, do not wear a seat belt!

12. Never ride on the implement, especially on the tongue.

Compiled by John Fouts. For more infromation, contact WSU Extension at (509) 524-2685 or email John at fouts@wsu.edu.

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