Roll-over Protection Structures (PSA Radio Script)

tractor engine noise

Tractor accidents account for an estimated 600 fatalities a year. Roll-overs account for more than half of these deaths. Thanks to the roll-over protective structures known as ROPS, injuries and deaths have decreased. Federal law requires that all tractors used by farm employees and built after 1976 be equipped with ROPS.

A roll over protective structure provides a "zone of protection" which is only effective if you use a seat belt. If the you are thrown off the tractor you will be outside this "zone" and can be crushed under the machine. Not many operators survive such an incident.

It is important to note that tractor cabs are not necessarily roll over protective structures. Many are merely weather shields. Check with your supplier to determine if your cab has a ROPS. Roll over protective structures can be retrofitted to older tractors and if it saves one life, it has paid for itself.

This message is brought to you by the Agricultural Health and Safety Center, Applied Behavioral Sciences of the University of California at Davis.