Quad bikes are relatively new machines and consequently there have been a number of serious accidents. This is due to operators lacking the knowledge and skills required for its safe use. The Health and Safety Executive stipulates that if you are involved in work which includes negotiating rough and steep terrain, your employer must ensure that you are trained in safe techniques for off-road driving. It's vital that you know not only how to drive your vehicle; knowledge about how to maintain it is also key to ensuring reliability and safe operation. Take a look at the following safety tips:

• Wear suitable head protection – full motorcycle helmet or approved ATV helmet is the best
• When towing equipment behind your quad bike – ensure good stability and braking. Brakes fitted to the trailed equipment will help prevent jack-knifing when braking or travelling downhill
• Improve stability by using a ball hitch with a swivel mechanism on the drawbar and arrange the load so that some weight is transferred to the drawbar
• Ensure the trailed weight is not excessive for your vehicle

All our courses here at the Rural Skills Centre are up to date with the current legislation and HSE regulations. They include the legal requirements, safety clothing, maintenance and controls, riding techniques, route planning and slopes, and difficult terrain. They also lead to Lantra Award Certification on the successful completion of an assessment.

Contact James Foster for more information: email James or telephone 01285 889873.