Working in agriculture requires skill, innovation, purpose, and a strong connection to the land. While the work is rewarding, recent serious incidents involving all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and utility task/type vehicles (UTVs) serve as a reminder that this work can have devastating consequences if things go wrong.
Every workplace incident leaves a lasting mark on the families, friends, colleagues, and communities connected to those involved, and is felt deeply by the WSPS team as well.
Ensuring workers get home safely is a responsibility we all share. WSPS remains committed to doing everything in our power to help prevent future incidents and invites you to do the same. By working together, we can strengthen our impact and create safer workplaces for everyone.
Understanding the risk
ATVs and UTVs are widely used in agriculture to transport workers, tools, materials, and equipment across varied terrain.
Although designed for rough terrain, they can pose serious risks without proper training, maintenance, and safe operating procedures. According to Statistics Canada data from 2013 to 2019, approximately 100 Canadians died in ATV-related incidents each year.
Employers and supervisors are responsible for understanding ATV/UTV hazards and adhering to applicable legal requirements, as well as providing strong orientation, clear instructions, and ongoing training for operators — whether they are using an ATV/UTV for the first time or have years of experience. Special consideration should be given to new and young workers and temporary foreign workers, who may be unfamiliar with the hazards, equipment, or safety expectations, or language being used in the workplace.
Particular caution is needed on family farms, where young children may be present and at greater risk of injury around these vehicles.
To help prevent incidents and protect workers, read this guide on ATV and UTV safety, which outlines common hazards, legal duties, and best practices for safely operating and maintaining these vehicles.
Help drive change
Every worker deserves a safe and healthy workplace. Join us in our commitment to make Ontario a safer and stronger place to work.
- If your business or family farm utilizes ATVs/UTVs as part of its operations, please take advantage of the resources available to support the health and safety practices of your workplace.
- If you know someone who could benefit from this information, please be a good neighbour — let them know about WSPS and the free support
available to help keep them safe.
Thank you.
Published July 24, 2026
