Quad bike fatality (14 January 2022)

A 19-year-old farm worker sustained fatal injuries in a quad bike roll over incident. The incident occurred while maneuvering through a grassed creek. The worker had been tasked with spraying thistles from the quad bike.

Image of the creekbed where the incident took place
Incident location

Safety Information

Quad bikes continue to be the biggest killer on Australian farms, with roll over the most common cause of death. Over 80% of quad bike fatalities in NSW are due to quad bike roll over.

Farm owners and operators must be aware that quad bikes are high risk vehicles and are not safe for use on all terrains or for all tasks.

As a farm owner or farm operator you are responsible for anyone operating a quad bike at your workplace. You must identify the risks associated with quad bike use and do what you are reasonably able to do to eliminate those risks.

Before using a quad bike at your workplace:

  • choose the safest vehicle for the job - ensure a quad bike is appropriate for the task, terrain, and the rider
  • install an operator protection device (OPD), also known as a roll bar to your quad bike
  • tell someone where you are going and when you plan to return – carry a communication device
  • check weights and positioning of items being transported
  • stabilise loads and consider using internal baffles in tanks to reduce the movement of liquid
  • check the tyre pressure before use and at regular intervals
  • use and maintain the quad bike in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions
  • assess the environmental conditions and be aware of long grass, rocks, trees, fallen branches, creeks, and gullies, and where the ground is soft or affected by weather or other conditions
  • ensure the rider is trained and capable to safely operate and maintain the quad bike
  • ensure no children under 16 ride on adult sized quad bikes – even as a passenger.

When using a quad bike at your workplace:

  • wear a compliant helmet and other personal protective equipment such as goggles and sturdy footwear
  • ride at a speed suitable for the conditions
  • avoid traversing on steep, uneven, or slippery terrain.

More information

Download this Incident Information Release as a PDF

Back to top