March 2009
Transport: Dangerous Projections
Following a number of fatal accidents, the Department for Transport have asked us to highlight the issue of spikes, cutting blades and other dangerous protrusions on agricultural vehicles.
It takes very little imagination to work out what could go wrong—horribly wrong—if an accident were to happen when someone just takes a risk by not removing or guarding such risks. However, these incidents do happen and this is really just a reminder as the consequences for everyone are just too serious.
In terms of legislation, all vehicles used on the public highway must be in such a condition that no hazard is presented to road users. In particular, ‘all spikes, cutting blades or other protruding sharp appliances that are fitted to or mounted on a special type agricultural vehicle must be removed or effectively guarded so that no danger is caused (or likely to be caused) to any person.’
In addition, there are general provisions to ensure that motor vehicles and trailers must be safe. To ensure that this requirement is met, it is clear that any equipment such as bale spikes, forks and other protrusions that are a danger to other road users must be removed or effectively guarded.
We must all work together, with Government, on this issue to try and prevent any unnecessary accidents occurring.