Farm Equipment on the Road

As the weather warms up, we start to see larger pieces of farm machinery using the public roads.  Especially, during the busy harvest season, there are numerous farms that use public roads to move equipment and other items around. 

Farm equipment is constantly changing, getting larger and more innovative in its uses and design.  This equipment has provided efficiencies when farming and tasks much simpler to complete.  Although it has improved the agricultural industry in many ways, we can’t forget that these large pieces of equipment can be very dangerous if not handled properly.  As the harvest season gets into full swing, it’s important to remember the rules of the road to keep everyone safe.

Drivers License

In Ontario, there is no age restriction on driving farm equipment on private property.  However, it is the adult’s responsibility to ensure that the youth are not doing work that is outside of their physical and cognitive capabilities.  We want to help our kids grow and push them to take on new tasks.  This a great way to help them mature and learn farm safety!  We must ensure that they have been properly trained, especially before starting a new or especially dangerous job. 

Consider these questions:

• Can they easily reach the controls?
• Do they know what to do in an emergency?
•  Have they been trained properly?
• Do they know how to shut down the equipment safely, quickly, and properly?
• Are they aware of their surroundings?

For a piece of farm equipment to be driven on a public road the operator must be at least 16 years of age.  They do not need a license to operate farm equipment, however if your license has been suspended, you are not allowed to drive on Ontario roads regardless of the equipment or vehicle being driven.

Mobile Devices

Technology has played a huge role in making farming more efficient.  However, the use of any type of hand-held device (cell phone, GPS etc.) is not allowed to be used while operating any piece of farm equipment or self-propelled implements of husbandry.

Stay Visible

Any piece of farm equipment that drives on a public road or highway must display a Slow-Moving Vehicle (SMV) sign.  While using a SMV sign the operator must not exceed a speed limit of 40km/h (25 MPH).  The signs placement is crucial so that other drivers know to slow down and drive with caution when approaching.  According to the Ontario Ministry of Transportation’s Farm Guide, any SMV sign should be:

• Visible from 150 metres (500’)
• Centered at the rear of the piece of equipment
• Between 0.6 – 2 metres (2’ – 6’) off the ground

Always ensure that flashing hazards lights are being used on the road and all pieces of equipment!

Farm vehicles that travel on the road, especially during harvest times, are often driving in the early mornings and into the evenings when it is much darker.  The rule of thumb is head and taillights must be used from a half hour before sunrise to a half hour after sunset.  If the weather conditions change to where other vehicles or people are not clearly visible from at least 500 feet away all lights should be turned on.   

Lighting requirements for all farm equipment, regardless of the size, shape or implements attached can be found in the Ministry of Transportations Farm Guide.

Where to Drive

If possible, always drive on the travelled or paved portion of the road.  You should only use the shoulder when safe.  The shoulder is often not built as strong as the main road and could cause the equipment to slip or fall under the machinery’s weight. By driving on the road surface, it is not only safer for yourself, but also any cars that may be approaching from behind.  If you are partially on the shoulder, some drivers may feel like they have enough space to pass and could cause a serious accident.

Note: Any piece of farm equipment that is driven on the public roads must follow the Highway Traffic Act.

Large Equipment

Safety should be the number one concern when using farm equipment and special considerations need to be taken when moving very large pieces of machinery.

• Be aware of any additional blind spots
• Pay extra attention to overhead wires and tight corners

Consider Josslin's CFFO Member Exclusive Insurance Plans provided through Trillium Mutual.  Get coverage designed for your farm - at a great rate!

Additional Resources

Canadian Agricultural Safety Association

Farm Guide – Farm Equipment on the Highway (MTO)

Frequently Asked Questions (Farms.com)