The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has called for a mandatory safety standard for the operation of quad bikes in Australia, including a safety rating system, crush protection devices and minimum performance standards.
ACCC Commissioner Mick Keogh said quad bike accidents resulted in an average of 16 deaths in Australia each year, with six people per day attending a hospital emergency department and two requiring hospitalisation for serious injuries.
He said almost half the deaths occurred during work-related activities.
Mr Keogh said the ACCC was proposing a mandatory safety standard based on the US Standard that required an additional rollover warning label, introduced a safety star rating system, required manufacturers to integrate an operator protection device, and imposed minimum performance tests for dynamic handling, stability and mechanical suspension.
“The ACCC believes a mandatory safety standard incorporating all of these elements is the best option to save lives and make quad bikes safer for everyone,” Mr Keogh said.
“We invite the public and stakeholders to have their say.”
He said the ACCC had considered a range of evidence and views in making this draft recommendation.
“We have consulted with industry representatives, quad bike manufacturers and retailers, farmers, consumers, academics, hospitals, health professionals, tourism operators, among many others,” Mr Keogh said.
He said the ACCC had developed a Consultation Regulation Impact Statement, which detailed the proposed options to make quad bikes safer.
Mr Keogh said submissions should be made by 4 May, with a final recommendation to the Government expected by mid-year.
There are approximately 190,000 quad bikes in operation in Australia, used in workplaces and for recreation including adventure tours and competitive racing.
The ACCC’s 97-page Consultation Regulation Impact Statement can be accessed at this PS News link.
