However, this does not mean that the integrity of such equipment is any less regulated or important than for those vehicles covered by an annual test. Agricultural motor vehicles, Groundcare machinery, trailers and trailed appliances are covered under the PUWER (Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations).

There is a national Code of Practice to assist operators who use such equipment to comply with the legislation in a practical manner using a common set of forms.

The guidance has been drawn up through a cross-industry initiative. The partners in this initiative are:

• British Agricultural and Garden Machinery Association (BAGMA)
• Health & Safety Executive
• Lantra Awards
• National Association of Agricultural Contractors
• NFU England and Wales
• NFU Scotland

With guidance from:

• The Vehicle Inspectorate
• Association of Chief Police Officers

Training for users

Employers must ensure that all people who use, supervise or manage the use of equipment have received adequate training for purposes of health and safety. It should include training in the:

• methods which should be adopted when using the work equipment
• risks which may be encountered, and
• precautions that need to be taken.

Training and supervision is particularly important for all young people because of their relative immaturity and unfamiliarity with the working environment. Employers must also ensure that casual workers receive appropriate training and instruction. Induction training is particularly important.

It is imperative that to comply with the legislation daily checks are carried out. There is a cab stickerdesigned to do just that. It allows you to plan the service schedule for the equipment and ensures that the operator is reminded to undertake the key daily checks. It is available from R T Machinery.

Practical Steps

Before you start work in the morning walk round the machine / vehicle and check the following:

• Check oil / fuel / water levels and leaks
• Check tyre condition and wheel fixings
• Check all the safety guards are fitted and working safely
• Check the steering wheel is working correctly
• Check the brakes and hand brakes
• Check the flashing beacon and warning devices
• Check all lights / reflectors / indicators are working correctly
• Check that the mirrors both internal and external are in position and are clean
• Check that all implements are attached correctly
• Check that all external services are fitted correctly
• Check the drivers seat is comfortable and in the correct place
• Check that you can see clearly in all directions

R T Machinery Ltd is proud and very pleased to announce that we are now qualified to provide Operator Training to users of groundcare machinery.

The National Groundcare Machinery Operator Training and Assessment Scheme is designed to train and assess operators of Groundcare Machinery in the areas of Amenity Horticulture, Artificial Surfaces, Golf Courses and Sports Turf.

In these days of increasing Employers' Liability insurance costs and the requirements of the HSE as it strives to get rid of workplace injuries the relevance of this scheme is clear.

As Lantra Awards qualified instructors we can provide your operatives with training that leads to a Lantra certificate.