Course to increase quad safety in Ballyconnell

While a quad is one of the most popular modes of transport on farms, they are also potentially very dangerous, with 10 quad-related deaths on Irish farms occurring between 2010-2022.

To combat his regulations governing the safe use of ATVs (all-terrain vehicles)/Quad Bikes in all workplaces (SI 619/2021) come into effect on November 20, which will require all operators of an ATV to complete a relevant safety course.

Conal Johnston, who works as a training officer at TMTS Training in Ballyconnell will facilitate the course, he says ATV safety training is essential.

“Every year there are fatalities and injuries on farms from ATV accidents. We hope this training can cut back on this.”

“Previously there was no training for operating a quad on private land, there was no training required but it is becoming mandatory from November 20” he explained. “Our course is just for quads because quads are the most popular vehicle on farms. There are separate courses for buggies and quads.”

The course contains both theory and practical training and includes health and safety training, as well as planning and understanding what the vehicle can do, and a series of practical sessions and assessments, where participants are taught and assessed on a range of manoeuvres, such as riding on different terrains and operating the vehicles with trailers and loads.”

Conal says there is a minimum standard that has to be reached in order to pass the course which is accredited by Lantra, one of the UK and Ireland’s leading awarding bodies for training in the land-based industries, is carried out to a QQI standard.

“It’s a one-day course for experienced users, but additional training can be given to beginners. It’s not something you turn up and pass, there are criteria that have to be reached for accreditation if the tutor feels that a learner doesn’t reach the standard they will be asked to come back for more training. Refresher training will be required every three years. It costs €200 pp, with a group rate of €750 for four people.”