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ATVs contain unique features that enable them to operate in harsh work environments where larger, less mobile vehicles cannot safely be used. Their oversized, deep tread, and low-pressure tires, and lightweight frame - compared to other motorized vehicles - enhance their maneuverability but also present risks such as a rollover which may occur due to a high center of gravity and a relatively narrow wheelbase.

For this reason, ATVs should be treated with the same care and safety as all other tools and equipment on a job site. When operated correctly, ATVs are, by design, safe and practical vehicles that can be used in almost any outside job setting. Workers who get into an accident due to their own negligence or reckless behavior, however, create an unsafe working environment for coworkers or site visitors.

According to OSHA, the primary reasons for All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) accidents in work situations involve:

●        Unbalanced loads and loads in excess of the ATV’s specified limits (especially overloading the rear cargo rack)

●        Operating at excessive speeds for the terrain/operation

●        Operating ATVs on paved roads

●        Not wearing a protective helmet

●        Insufficient or no training

●        Carrying passengers

In all accident cases that OSHA listed above, the ATV design was not a contributing factor in the accident.

CFMOTO is dedicated to designing and manufacturing safe and balanced ATVs for use in work settings. We value the companies and individuals who operate our ATVs every day to accomplish job-related tasks. We believe that ATV-related injuries and fatalities can be significantly reduced with proper training and information. Therefore, we play an active role in ATV safety education and promotion.

Below, we cover some of the main issues surrounding ATV safety and how it relates to your work.

ATV Use in Various Industries

Professionals regularly operate ATVs in the following industries:

●        Border patrol and security

●        Construction operations

●        Emergency medical response

●        Land management and surveying

●        Law enforcement

●        Military operations

●        Mineral and oil exploration, pipeline maintenance

●        Ranching and farming

●        Search and rescue

●        Small-scale forestry activities

●        Wildland fire control

Because ATVs are used in various industries across the country, employers and employees should incorporate best practices as they relate to a given industry:

These practices include:

●        Recommended ATV Best Practices for Employers

●        Provide helmet and eye-protection for workers and encourage the use of other personal protective equipment (PPE)

●        Identify and mark – and eliminate if possible – hazards such as excavations, trenches, and guy wires that might be present in specific work environments, so they are easily seen and avoided by workers on the job site

●        Establish operating and maintenance policies that follow manufacturer’s terrain guidelines, specified hauling and towing capacity, and passenger restrictions

●        Provide employees access to hands-on training by an ATV Safety Institute instructor or a similarly qualified instructor

●        Share responsibility with employees on the practices detailed below

Recommended ATV Best Practices for Employees

●        Wear PPE including a helmet, eye protection, long pants, and sturdy boots

●        Participate in hands-on training in the safe handling and operation of an ATV

●        Conduct a pre-ride inspection of tires, brakes, headlights, etc., and follow the employer’s maintenance policies for the upkeep of the ATV

●        Understand how implements and attachments may affect the stability and handling of the ATV Never exceed the manufacturer’s specified hauling and towing capacity or weight limits and ensure cargo is balanced, secured, and loaded on provided racks

●        Be aware of potential hazards such as trees, ruts, rocks, streams, and gullies, and follow posted hazard warnings

●        Drive at speeds safe for weather and terrain and never operate ATVs on surfaces not designed for ATVs such as paved roads and highways

●        Never permit passengers on the ATV, unless the ATV has an additional seat specifically designed to carry them

●        Never operate an ATV while under the influence of drugs or alcohol

CFMOTO ATVs For Your Work Site

If you are looking for safe and reliable off-road transportation for your job, CFMOTO can equip you with an ATV or side by side that can handle rugged terrain, as well as perform various tasks around the work site.

To find out more about our line of all-terrain vehicles, visit or contact a CFMOTO dealer near you.