Tractor base hit should always be top of thinker , especially when rollover can result in injuries and even demise . Yes , tractor attachmentslike front - closing loaders and backhoes are awful and fun to discuss , but perhaps the greatest tractor accessory ever design is the rollover protection structure ( ROPS ) , also roll in the hay as the rollover protection system .
What is a ROPS?
A ROPS is exactly what its name suggests : a tractor refuge structure to protect vehicle operators in the result of a rollover . They ’re not exclusive to tractors by any way , but the eye - catching appearing of a ROPS on a cab - less tractor — an arced bar rising up from behind the seat , reaching above the driver ’s mind — is a mutual wad . A ROPS can also be build into a tractor taxi , though be admonish not every cab provide ROPS - quality protection . A ROPS must be strong enough to conduct the weighting of the tractor ( if it rolls over ) without giving way .
You might take on that tractor rollover accidents are a thing of the past ; surely those stem from the sidereal day of unstable three - wheeled row crop tractors ? While it ’s rightful three - wheeled tractors can be especially prostrate to rollovers , there are situations that can make even the uncompromising of tractors to either riff back or tip over on their side . function on slopes or near ditches can be a formula for rollover , as can turning too fast or braking with only one wheel . According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ( CDC ) , tractor rollovers are the cause of around 130 fatalities per year in the United States .
ROPS ca n’t prevent tractor rollovers , but they can save life . After 1985 , ROPS became commonplace on new tractor in the United States , and the introduction has reduced rollover fatalities . When coupled with a seat belt , studies suggest ROPS are near to 100 % effectual at preclude tractor rollover fatalities .
Should I install a ROPS on my old tractor?
If you ’re operating a pre-1985 tractor , there ’s a good fortune it does n’t have a ROPS . For your tractor safety , you ’ll want to see about bear one professionally installed .
We say professionally because ROPS are held to rigorous safety standards — that ’s what make them so in effect . If you ’re old tractor is a common model , like a Massey Ferguson 135 , you may find ROPS alternative to be readily usable .
If a worthy ROPS ca n’t be found , you may desire to take retiring your old tractor and investing in a post-1985 model . You ca n’t predict for certain when a rollover might happen , and a ROPS - equipped tractor offers effective protection .
Do other farm vehicles need ROPS?
tractor are n’t the only farm vehicles at danger for rollover . ATVs and UTVsare two other examples . ATVs in particular are at endangerment due to their little size and high centers of gravitational attraction , though even the larger and safer UTVs are n’t immune . When purchasing an ATV or UTV , see if it comes with a ROPS , or if one can be installed after the fact .
receive ROPS on your farm vehicles is really a no - brainer . When coupled with a seat belt and careful driving , a ROPS will supply tractor safe and peace of mind through all your farming activity .
This clause about tractor safety was written for Hobby Farms online . To take to Hobby Farms mag , click here .
