ATVs are vital tools on many farms, but every year preventable accidents involving these vehicles cause serious injuries and fatalities. With almost 600 farm-related incidents reported in the last year alone2, the farming unions are urging everyone in agriculture to prioritise safety and reduce the risks that come with their everyday use.
To help farmers keep safe, the unions are urging farmers to remember these measures:
鈥� 听 听A 鈥� Always wear a helmet3
鈥� 听 听T 鈥� Training听
鈥� 听 听V 鈥� Vehicle and maintenance checks
鈥� 听 听S 鈥� Single rider only
NFU Deputy President David Exwood, NFU Cymru Deputy President Abi Reader, NFU Scotland Vice-president Duncan Macalister and UFU Deputy President John McLenaghan said: 鈥淓very year we see lives shattered by preventable ATV accidents, and it鈥檚 time for that to change. That鈥檚 why we are coming together to send a clear message: safety must always come first.
鈥淣o one plans to have an accident and you never know when one might happen. Whether you鈥檙e checking livestock or moving around the farm, the risks are real every time you get on an ATV. It鈥檚 vital to take life-saving steps like wearing a helmet, completing proper training, being competent and confident in handling the vehicle and carrying out routine safety checks and maintenance.
鈥淪afety must be our first thought and not the last. We all have a responsibility to protect ourselves, our families and our teams to make smart choices on farm. Let鈥檚 lead by example, speak up when something鈥檚 not right and make sure everyone gets home safe. Remember, you matter.鈥�
More information:
1. 听 听Farm Safety Week runs from 21-25 July 2025 and is organised by Yellow Wellies.
2. 听 听According to HSE data.
3. 听 听For NFU members, see the NFU Spada offer on protective helmets.
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