LIMERICK quad bike users must undergo training and wear protective equipment, according to new government regulations.
The new regulations came into effect last week and are aimed at improving health and safety around the use of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and quad bikes all across the country.
According to figures provided by the Health and Safety Authority (HSA), as many as 12 deaths in agriculture over the last 13 years have been linked to the use of ATVs and quad bikes, along with many serious injuries.
To help assist ATV and quad users in Limerick in complying with these regulations, FRS Training are running a series of two day training programmes over the coming months which fulfil the mandatory training requirement.
The next intake, will take place in Herbertstown on December 14 and 15, while additional courses are expected to run in January and February 2024.
The course is QQI accredited and ensures participants have the relevant knowledge, skills, and competence to drive and handle all-terrain and quad vehicles in compliance with the relevant legislation.
Speaking about the training programme, Colin Donnery, group CEO of FRS Network, said: “Given the growing use of quads/ATVs in Limerick, where they are used by farmers and others, it is important that all users understand the new regulations that have kicked in. From now on, anyone operating quads has to undergo mandatory training and they also need to wear a helmet and other protective equipment.”
“With the multipurpose use of these vehicles, which can include spraying, spreading, transport, and a range of other work, we understand how important these vehicles can be for farmers and others in Limerick.
“Through our programme, anyone who needs to receive the mandatory training can do so – ensuring they are on solid legal ground when they are operating their quad/ATV in future.”
