Carry the load as low as practical.
Travelling on sloping ground
Tractors have a high centre of gravity, and are relatively unstable on sloping ground. Thus, any operation on sloping ground is a risk. High speed combined with slope multiplies the risk. Operating front end loaders on slopes causes a greater change in the centre of gravity than it does on flat ground so the risk of overturn is much higher. The risk of overturn is increased when objects are struck when crossing hill slopes.
To help prevent incidents set the wheels as wide as possible and carry loads as low as possible, carry the bucket of a front end loader as low to the ground as practical. If you use a front end loader on a slope, (e.g. loading a truck) it is best to level out a section of ground first. Always reverse up a steep hill, this positions the tractor in its most stable position. If the wheels start spinning it means that the slope is too great. If you are not sure if the slope is too steep, stay on the safe side and reverse up the slope. Always go slow across slopes and make turns as gradual and slow as possible. Keep off-set implements on the up-hill side of the tractor where possible. Monitor the ground for obstructions and depressions so you can avoid them when travelling across slopes.
Travelling on broken ground
Broken ground is ground surface with irregularities. It is a problem when either an operator is unfamiliar with a paddock, or the paddock conditions have changed due to heavy rain, or the operator is travelling too fast for the conditions. Take care and travel at a slow enough speed to safely negotiate any hazard. This is particularly the case when operating in long grass or a tall crop, and where visibility is restricted. Watch out for creeks and gully banks, they may collapse under the weight of the tractor if you drive too close. As a general rule of thumb, never drive any closer to the bank than the gully is deep. That means if the gully is 2 metres in depth, keep the tractor at least 2 metres from it. Have a good look and mark hazards in the paddock; Stones, stumps, logs, gullies, wash-outs and creek beds.
Set wheels as wide as possible.
Take account of the climate
Temperature
Hot and humid weather may expose the driver to heat stress, sunburn or heat stroke, leading to an increase in accident rates due to fatigue and poor co-ordination. In cold conditions the operator may be required to wear bulky clothing, especially if they are operating a tractor without a cabin. This may restrict movement and bulky, loose fitting clothes are more likely to become caught in machinery parts.
To help prevent incidents, consume adequate quantities of water to maintain your body’s normal water balance and aid cooling in hot weather, drive a tractor with at least a shade canopy, but preferably an air conditioned cabin. Cover-up with a long sleeve cotton shirt and collar, broad brim hat, sun screen and sunglasses where appropriate. In cold weather wear clothing in a number of layers that you can remove gradually during work as you warm up. Wear clothing that is close fitting to avoid catching on machinery, never wear scarves around machinery because of the risk of catching on moving machinery parts.
Diff lock engaged.
Wet weather
Wet weather can cause rough, boggy farm tracks. The hazard is worse on sloping ground. Mud on work boots and tractor steps makes mounting/dismounting more hazardous.
To help prevent incident use the differential lock in slippery conditions to aid traction to the drive wheels.
Note: Use of diff lock will limit steering ability of the tractor.
Always reverse out of a bog. If this doesn’t work, use another tractor to pull you out. Keep all tractor tyres in good condition. Drive at lower than normal speeds and avoid sloping ground where possible. Clean the mud off your boots and the tractor steps to reduce the risks when mounting and dismounting.
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