LANDSCAPE ONTARIO – WORKPLACE SAFETY TAILGATE TALKS
© 2026, WSPS.CA 117
Review the General Health & Safety Best Practices section on
page 11 before performing any task.
Avoid travelling across a slope. Travel up/down slopes with the
load (the heavy end of the tractor) uphill for greater stability.
When unloaded, the rear end of the tractor should be uphill.
The load bucket should be positioned as low as possible at all
times and rest on ground when parked.
Always look and check behind the vehicle before backing up.
No passengers/riders should be allowed to travel on any piece
of equipment or the tractor.
Safely remove and store the key when not in use.
Operation on a roadway requires a slow moving
vehicle (SMV) sign.
Roll-over protective structures (ROPS) are designed to minimize
risk of injury in the event of a rollover:
Ensure all tractors are outfitted with ROPS with a seatbelt and
are CSA approved (including retrofitted equipment).
If the tractor is equipped with a fold down roll bar do not wear
the seatbelt.
Do not remove ROPS while working around low hanging tree
branches and shrubs. Use an alternative equipment instead,
e.g. lawn mower or trimmer.
A Power Take-Off (PTO) is a device on a tractor which allows
rotating mechanical output to run another piece of rotating
equipment. Any rotating item has the potential for entanglement
by grabbing any material and binding it tightly around the shaft.
When possible make sure the tractor's PTO accessory
is disengaged when not in use or before shutting down
the tractor.
Never operate a PTO unless proper guarding is in place and in
proper working condition on the PTO shaft, U-joint and tractor
master shield.
If working around an operating PTO, ensure all long hair is
tied back, clothing is fitted closely to the body and jewelry
is removed to prevent being caught in the rotating device.
Reduce speed while driving on uneven terrain to reduce
stress on the shaft and bearings.
