Safety of the operator
In order to protect the safety of the operator, switches and levers should be designed to be within easy reach of all potential operators and placed to reduce the risk of the wrong switch or lever being used.
Switches should be easy to identify. The operator's seat should be fully adjustable and well sprung to reduce vibration. The backrest should support the lower part of the spine to reduce postural stress to the spine.
Exhaust pipes and cab ventilation systems should be designed and constructed to ensure the operator does not inhale exhaust fumes.
Operator access to and exit from a tractor should be designed to allow a person to get on and off the tractor without undue stretching.
All access surfaces should be non-slip and designed to prevent the build-up of dirt and mud.
Where a cabin is fitted, adequate ventilation facilities should be provided for the operator.
Windscreens and glass fitted should be safety glass complying with AS/NZS 2080 Safety glass for land vehicles.
Alternatively, where any glazing material other than glass is fitted, it should be a clear material of a kind that does not shatter.
A seat belt should be fitted to all seating positions on new tractors in accordance with AS 2664 Earthmoving machinery - Seat belts and seat belt anchorages.
Seat belts should comply with AS/NZS 2596:1995 Seat belt assemblies for motor vehicles or with SAEJ 386 - Operator restraint system for off-Road work machines.
Where the tractor is fitted with a seatbelt and a ROPS is present, it should be worn by the operator if the tractor is moving.
This will provide additional protection in the event of a tractor rolling over by keeping the driver within the protective zone offered by the ROPS.
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