Laws and Regulations Governing Agricultural Tires
The installation, removal, and inflation of agricultural tires involve significant safety risks. Agricultural tires are often large and are mounted and inflated under high pressure. Improperly performed work can lead to serious accidents caused by tire explosions, flying rim parts, or the unexpected release of stored energy.
Employers and employees therefore share a joint responsibility to perform these tasks safely. The legal requirements for this are set forth in the Working Conditions Act and are supplemented by industry regulations, manufacturers’ instructions, and technical standards.
Risks Associated with Installing and Inflating Agricultural Tires
Various risks may arise when working on agricultural tires.
The main risks are:
- tire blowouts while inflating;
- detachment of rim rings or rim components;
- crushing due to the weight of the wheel and tire;
- ejection of parts under high pressure;
- physical strain from manual lifting;
- Injuries caused by defective tools or faulty equipment.
Extremely dangerous situations can arise, particularly with tires that have split rims or damaged rim components.
Safe Inflation of Agricultural Tires
Inflating agricultural tires is one of the greatest risks in tire service.
During inflation, significant forces can be released if a tire or rim fails. Therefore, additional safety measures must be taken.
Important safety measures include:
- use of a safety cage or safety guard when required by the manufacturer;
- Use of a fill hose of sufficient length;
- use of a remote-controlled inflation gun or pressure gauge;
- Never stand in front of or above the tire while inflating it;
- Do not exceed the prescribed maximum inflation pressure;
- Immediately stop work in the event of irregularities or deformations.
When inflating large agricultural tires, it is recommended to stay outside the danger zone.
VACO Occupational Safety Catalog: Tires and Wheels
In addition to the general obligations under the Working Conditions Act and the Working Conditions Decree, the tire and wheel industry has a recognized Health and Safety Catalog for Tires and Wheels. This health and safety catalog was developed by VACO in collaboration with employer and employee organizations and describes practical measures that companies can use to fulfill their legal health and safety obligations.
The topic “Mounting and Inflating Tires” is explicitly included in this occupational safety and health catalog. The measures described are used by the Dutch Labor Inspectorate as a framework for supervision and enforcement.
The occupational safety and health catalog includes guidelines for:
- safe tire installation and removal;
- safe tire inflation;
- use of tire cages;
- use of work equipment;
- personal protective equipment;
- instruction and professional competence of employees.
Companies that operate in accordance with the occupational safety and health catalog can demonstrate that they comply with the statutory requirements set forth in the Working Conditions Act.
Download the VACO Practical Guidelines brochure on “Mounting and Inflating Agricultural Tires” here.