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A recent Maryland OSHA alert lets employers know that accidents in the workplace involving All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) are increasing. In some cases, these accidents resulted in fatalities. Although most ATV accidents happen when the vehicles are used for recreational use, more accidents are happening in the workplace. ATVs are becoming more prevalent in the workplace, especially in industries such as law enforcement, construction, agriculture, and facilities management.

As more ATVs appear in the workplace, more accidents happen, including an increasing number of fatalities. During a 9-year time span, 113 people were killed in workplace accidents involving ATVs. When the total number of non-fatal accidents was added to this figure, the number of accidents for this 9-year period was 1625.

ATVs may appear fun, but they can be difficult to handle. When a driver takes a corner too sharply or tries to drive up an incline, the ATV may flip over. ATV accidents can also occur because the vehicle is overloaded. ATVs cannot carry a great deal of equipment or luggage, but some drivers put too much weight on them. When an ATV is overloaded, it can become more unstable on inclines.

The Maryland OSHA alert points out that workers who drive ATVs shouldn’t violate the weight guidelines specified by the manufacturer. Exceeding this amount can lead to an accident. In addition, workers should adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines concerning the maximum number of riders the ATV will accommodate. ATVs are not designed to carry passengers.

To further prevent accidents, workers should wear helmets and be trained on how to safely operate the ATV. Just because workers are licensed to drive cars or motorcycles doesn’t mean they can safely operate an ATV. ATVs handle differently than cars, so workers should be trained specifically to drive them. Employers should strive to reduce the number of ATV accidents that happen in the workplace. Proper training of employees, along with safety equipment such as helmets, should help.

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