Abstract

The Union des producteurs agricoles (UPA) [agricultural producer's union] has voiced its concerns to the IRSST concerning hazards associated with farm-tractor operation, responsible for a high proportion of farm accidents. In order to solve this problem, the Institute created an interdisciplinary research team who conducted field observations and interviewed users and suppliers. Inventories of the types and models of tractors and of the most important safety devices were drawn up, conditions associated with tractor use evaluated, and user expectations, particularly in terms of safety, identified. An advisory committee comprising representatives of users, manufacturers, trainers and the UPA provided researchers with ready access to the workplace and collaborated on the validation and dissemination of recommendations stemming from the research.