On 6 April 2019, a farmer was fatally injured after coming off a quad bike in Myrup near Esperance. The tragedy follows an earlier incident in December 2018 when a 17-year-old youth also died when he came off a quad bike on a farm in the Great Southern region.

Possible contributing factors in incidents of this type

• Quad bikes may roll over and cause serious injury or death, particularly if used on uneven ground, at high speed or to carry heavy or uneven loads.
• Quad bikes are not all-terrain vehicles and should not be used on rough or steep sloping surfaces.
• Operators who are ejected or fall from a quad bike are susceptible to serious injury or death.
• Operating quad bikes without appropriate protection including a helmet, long sleeved clothing and footwear increases the risk of serious injury or death.
• Failing to appropriately maintain and service a quad bike increases the risk of malfunction while it is operating.
• Inexperienced and untrained quad bike operators are at increased risk of not ensuring the vehicles are always operated safely.

Managing hazards and risks

1. Consider using alternative suitable farm vehicles to travel around farms.
2. Identify and avoid any hazardous areas on farms where rough or steep terrain makes quad bike operation unsuitable.
3. Ensure all operators are provided with an appropriate level of training, instruction and supervision in the safe use of quad bikes.
4. Ensure all quad bike operators always wear the appropriate PPE such as motorcycle helmets, long sleeved clothing and footwear.
5. Familiarise operators with the manufacturer’s operation manual and safety warnings and recommendations.
6. Ensure that quad bikes are consistently well maintained and serviced.

Further information

• A handbook for workplaces -  Quad bikes on farms 
• Quad bike safety - What you need to know (Brochure) 
• Quad bike safety - What you need to know (Poster) 
• Farm vehicle pre-purchase checklist – choosing the right vehicle for the job  

The above information is provided based on WorkSafe’s preliminary investigation and further investigation is continuing.