Working with tractors

Points which should be considered in the operation of a tractor include:

Drive tractors at speeds slow enough to keep control in the event of unexpected hazards and be cautious in wet conditions
Reduce speed before turning or applying turning brakes
Descend slopes cautiously with tractor in low gear. For example, on downward slopes it is possible, in extreme circumstances, for one wheel to reverse, causing the tractor to roll over
Extra care needs to be taken if towing trailers or implements down slopes, as often the trailers will not have brakes
Ascending steep slopes can cause a tractor to back flip in extreme circumstances or the front wheels to lift thus reducing or losing control of steering
To increase stability when working on hillsides, set tractor wheels to the widest possible setting
When a tractor is bogged in mud or in a ditch, drive out in reverse gear
Logs and planks should only be used behind the rear wheels to increase traction, as using logs and planks in front of the rear wheels increases the chance of back flipping
Only climb onto or alight from a tractor that is stopped. Do not dismount from a tractor while the engine is running unless the transmission is in the neutral, or park position and the parking brake is effectively engaged
When an attachment becomes blocked, the tractor should be stopped, the drive to the attachment disconnected and the moving parts of the implement stopped before the obstruction is cleared
Seek expert technical advice before fixing counter weights or wheel weights (front or rear) to increase tractor stability

When using tractors

as a source for stationary power take-off or belt work, apply and lock the parking brake and chock the wheels
bond the tractor frame to earth according to manufacturer's instructions. This will remove the risk posed by static electricity when using belts

If using a tractor in an enclosed area like a shed, make sure it is well ventilated to avoid build-up of exhaust gases.

Exercise extreme caution when operating a tractor or any attached equipment when children or animals are in the area
Use appropriate warning lights when operating on a declared road reserve on which the tractor may create a hazard

If the tractor is to be operated on public roads it should be fitted with the following to comply with the requirements of the traffic regulations:

Where a tractor is operating in a confined area and other persons can not be excluded, it should be fitted with reversing beepers.

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