All-Terrain Vehicles
All-Terrain Vehicle Program Summary
General roles and responsibilities for health and safety can be found in university Policy 1005.
This program applies to Virginia Tech personnel who operate all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) for work-related purposes, regardless of location. Examples of ATVs include 3-wheeled and 4-wheeled motor vehicles, commonly known as 3-wheelers or 4-wheelers.
UTVs and RTVs differ from ATVs in that they are designed to work off-road and to carry loads, as opposed to ATVs which have a lighter load capacity and are typically designed for one person only. UTVs/RTVs have a side-by-side seating arrangement, typically have seat belts and roll-over protective systems (ROPS), and usually have a cargo box at the rear of the vehicle. UTVs/RTVs are designed for transporting heavier payloads in addition to the operator/passenger's weight. UTVs/RTVs may have 4 or 6 tires on the ground. UTV/RTV operators should follow the Owner's Manual for safe operation and maintenance procedures. If personal protective equipment, such as helmets, is required or recommended in certain situations, operators must follow these requirements.
Exclusions
This program does not apply to the following vehicle types:
- Four-wheeled vehicles with low centers of gravity that are typically used in racing on relatively level surfaces (e.g. "go-carts").
- Electric/gas utility-type vehicles (EGUVs) are covered by Policy 5501, such as golf carts or "gators."
Safety
ATVs are not presently covered by a specific OSHA standard; however, employers who use ATVs on worksites must comply with OSHA's General Duty Clause, section 5(a)(1), which states that employers must furnish a place of employment that is free from recognized hazards that cause, or are likely to cause, death or serious physical harm. OSHA does provide an information bulletin on Hazards Associated with All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) in the Workplace. This information is intended to supplement the manufacturer's recommendations and information provided in the owner's manual. They also provide a Fact Sheet that is helpful with operator training provided by the employee's supervisor (or other departmental representatives).
Information on ROPS for construction equipment can be found here. Some ATV manufacturers may offer ROPS as an additional feature or modification. Additional safety features should always be considered when purchasing new equipment.
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Training
Operators
Operators must be authorized by their supervisor or department to operate ATVs for work-related purposes.
- Environmental Health & Safety offers a general ATV Safety course online for departments owning/operating ATVs.
- Departments must supplement Environmental Health & Safety online training with hands-on and machine-specific training, especially for new operators.
- Training must include any videos or materials provided by the manufacturer for the ATV. Training shall be documented and retained by the supervisor.
- Operators must read pertinent sections of the owner's manual regarding safe operation, personal protective equipment required, and limitations.
- All manufacturer's warnings must be reviewed by each operator and shall be followed.
- Operators should be provided an opportunity to operate the ATV under supervision in order to become familiar with the vehicle. New operators of ATVs are strongly encouraged to take an ATV safety training course provided by the dealer or other provider.
- The ATV Safety Institute offers a free online course for new ATV operators based upon the age and size of the ATV to be operated. All ATV operators are encouraged to take advantage of this training opportunity.
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General Requirements
Design
ATVs shall be designed and manufactured in accordance with the American National Standards Institute and Specialty Vehicle Institute of America (ANSI/SVIA) standard for Four Wheel All-Terrain Vehicles - Equipment, Configuration, and Performance Requirements (ANSI/SVIA 1 - 2010).
Virginia Laws
- Code of Virginia, Section 46.2-915.1, provides restrictions on where ATVs may be operated, age restrictions, as well as the requirement for an approved protective helmet (i.e. DOT and/or Snell certified).
- Code of Virginia, 16VAC25-60-120 and 16VAC25-60-130 (General Industry and Construction standards respectively) require that employers shall comply with the manufacturer's specifications and limitations applicable to the operation, training, use, installation, inspection, testing, repair, and maintenance of all machinery, vehicles, tools, materials, and equipment unless specifically superseded by a more stringent corresponding requirement in OSHA (29 CRF 1910 or 29 CFR 1926).
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Appropriate personal protective equipment, such as motorcycle helmets (Snell, DOT, and/or ANSI-approved helmets), goggles, gloves, etc. must be provided by the department using the ATV and worn by the operator in accordance with the owner's manual. Operators should also follow recommendations provided by the manufacturer regarding appropriate clothing, such as long sleeves, long pants, and over-the-ankle boots. Refer to the owner's manual for specific requirements, guidance, and recommendations.
Pre-Ride Inspection
Operators should always perform a pre-ride inspection to verify that tire conditions, braking, steering, and suspension systems are all in operating order. Refer to the owner's manual for more information.
Working/Riding Alone
Operators who must work alone in remote areas should establish a check-in procedure with their supervisor or co-workers. Employers should know the following information regarding the ATV operator:
- Intended destination and route, if necessary;
- Estimated time of departure and return;
- Contact information (i.e. cell phone number or radio contact); and
- Alternate plans in the event of bad weather, problems, etc.
Load Limits
Operators must know the ATV's load capacities and weight limitations. Refer to the owner's manual for specific front and rear load limits, as well as operator weight limitations. Never overload the front or rear cargo areas. Riders are typically not allowed on ATVs unless specifically designed to accommodate more than one person.
Maintenance
Proper maintenance of the ATV is important to ensure that it is well-balanced and functioning properly. Regular inspection and maintenance should be performed by the responsible department or designee in accordance with the Owner's Manual. A pre-use inspection checklist and maintenance schedule is typically provided in the owner's manual. Checks should include:
- Tires and wheels
- Controls and cables
- Lights and electrical systems
- Oil and fuel
- Chain and/or driveshaft
Recalls
ATV manufacturers may issue product recalls replacing, modifying, or repairing faulty products. Employers should be aware of how recall notices are made and where to obtain pertinent information. The Consumer Products Safety Commission maintains copies of ATV recalls, which may be accessed on their website.
Attachments and Modifications
Attachments and modifications affect the stability, operation, and braking of the ATV. Refer to the Owner's Manual for guidance when purchasing and using attachments and/or implements with your ATV. Modifications and alterations must be approved by the manufacturer.