“When you operate power tools and basically any mechanical equipment, safety is always prioritised. Without safety, we cannot talk about work value and productivity. We always say, no safety, no work barrier. No safety, no productivity,” an agricultural engineer in the mechanisation division of the Agricultural Research Council (ARC), Dr Tingmin Yu, emphasised.

Yu explained that research done by international institutions shows that worldwide at least 170 000 agricultural workers are fatally injured each year.

In South Africa, about 130 deaths are caused by tractor accidents each year, which is almost half of the total deaths caused by accidents on South African farms.

The danger of negligence 

Being negligent while using a tractor can be very dangerous, warns Yu. He says it is important that drivers are reminded of the importance of safer operations to avoid accidents that could potentially be caused by underestimating the danger of negligence.

Rollover Protection System (ROPS)

A tractor that is fitted with a Rollover Protection System (ROPS), as well as a sturdy cab, can save the life of the driver, says Yu.

He explains that a ROPS is a designed structure with roll cages or roll bars to provide protection around the driver when an accident occurs.

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“ROPS is proved to be a simple structure, but very effective to reduce fatalities and injuries for tractor operators.

“If you check your tractor you will find the ROPS, which is a strong steel frame, constructed by two vertical and one horizontal bar. It is usually mounted behind and over the tractor driver’s seat…”

Loading a tractor

Yu shared that the correct and safe way of loading a tractor in order to transport it to another location, is to make use of a concrete platform with ramps that has a similar elevation level to the tow truck.

He advised farmers and farm workers not to use wooden planks or similar methods to load the tractor onto the tow truck. He explains that wooden planks are not stable and strong enough, which can lead to severe injuries or even death.

In conclusion, Yu suggested that farmers should take the time to understand their tractors and implements thoroughly. Farmers should also read the operator’s menu and always pay attention to highlighted warnings.

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