Children present - please drive slowly.
Machine rollover or sliding on slopes/uneven terrain
Entanglement in moving parts (PTO shafts, blades)
Thrown objects (rocks, wire, debris)
Contact with sharp blades during maintenance or clearing blockages
Noise-induced hearing loss
Vibration-related fatigue or injury
Fire risk (from hot parts contacting dry material
Risks:
Serious injury or fatality from rollover or entanglement
Lacerations/amputations from blade contact
Eye injuries or equipment damage from projectiles
Hearing loss over time from prolonged exposure
Fire/damage to machinery and pasture
Controls:
General Controls:
Conduct pre-operation checks: blades, PTO guards, tyre pressure, and hydraulics.
Ensure all guards and shields are in place, particularly around the PTO and blades.
Only allow trained and competent operators to use mowers.
Always disengage PTO and shut off engine before maintenance or clearing blockages.
Wear PPE: safety glasses, steel-capped boots, gloves, hearing protection, and high-vis.
Terrain & Stability Controls:
Assess terrain before mowing; avoid steep slopes or areas prone to slipping.
Use low gear and 4WD on slopes; mow up and down rather than across when possible.
Install rollover protection structures (ROPS) and ensure seatbelts are worn.
Avoid mowing when ground is wet or unstable.
Slow down on slopes, turns, or rough ground to reduce sliding risk.
Thrown Object Controls:
Keep paddocks clear from rocks, standards and other projectiles.
Do not use without guards installed.
Keep bystanders and animals well clear of the work area.
Fire Safety Controls:
Keep a fire extinguisher on the tractor.
Clean dry grass and dust from hot parts regularly.
Avoid mowing during very dry, windy conditions if fire risk is high.
Rollovers on uneven, hilly, or slippery terrain (common in NZ landscapes).
Machine entanglement with PTO shaft or moving rake parts.
Flying debris (rocks, wire) causing injury or damage.
Slips, trips, and falls during hitching/unhitching or accessing the machine.
Visibility issues around the rake, especially during turning or reversing.
Mechanical failure from poor maintenance or worn components.
Risks:
Serious injury or fatality from tractor or implement rollover.
Limb entrapment or lacerations from moving parts.
Eye or body injuries from debris.
Musculoskeletal injuries during manual tasks.
Controls:
Conduct a pre-operation terrain check; avoid steep or slippery areas.
Operate up and down slopes, not across them.
Ensure seatbelt use.
Only trained, competent operators to drive on challenging terrain.
Maintain slow, controlled speeds especially during turns or rough terrain.
Fit all guards and shields securely over moving parts, especially PTO shafts.
Perform regular maintenance and pre-use checks (e.g. for worn tines, loose bolts).
Shut down and disengage PTO before clearing blockages or making adjustments.
Keep bystanders and animals well clear during operation.
Use three points of contact when mounting/dismounting the tractor.
Visibility and Communication:
Use the mirrors to mitigate blind spots.
Use phones or agreed signals for communication.
Machine entanglement (e.g. PTO shaft, pickup mechanism)
Crushing injuries (e.g. during maintenance or hitching)
Slipping/sliding on slopes or wet terrain
Flying debris or bale ejection
Fire risk (friction, overheating, dry material)
Fatigue-related incidents (long working hours)
Noise and vibration exposure
Risk Factors:
Inexperienced or untrained operators
Wet or uneven terrain
Lack of guards or safety interlocks
Working alone or under time pressure
Inadequate visibility (e.g. dust, early morning/evening)
Controls:
Ensure operators are trained in safe baler use and terrain assessment.
Pre-Operation Checks
Conduct daily inspections (guards in place, PTO covers, hydraulic lines).
Check terrain conditions and avoid steep, slippery, or uneven areas.
Ensure all guards and shields (especially on PTO shafts) are in place.
Use tractors with appropriate horsepower and braking capacity.
Terrain and Sliding Controls
Avoid baling across steep slopes; work up and down rather than across.
Use lower gears on slopes and avoid sudden turns or braking.
Fit tractors with dual wheels or tire chains if needed for traction. Duals may affect power to ground.
Wait for dry conditions when possible; avoid baling after rain or irrigation.
Safe Work Practices
Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.
Never clear blockages while machine is running.
Ensure clear communication when working with others (e.g. via radio or cell phone).
Avoid working alone or have regular check-in systems.
Emergency Preparedness
Carry a fire extinguisher rated for combustible materials.
Keep a well-stocked first aid kit and emergency contact list.
Check for mobile phone or radio coverage in the paddock.
Regularly clean balers to reduce buildup of flammable material.
Perform scheduled maintenance during downtime, not during pressure periods.