Use of tractors and other mobile plant during fire danger periods

There are some simple but specific requirements for the use of excavating or earth moving equipment, tractors, slashers, road making machines and other mobile plant etc. during Fire Danger Periods or on Total Fire Ban days that can be inadvertently overlooked. Read on and find out what they are and what you should do to comply with the law and to protect yourself and property from injury or damage.

The CFA declares the Fire Danger Period for each municipality (shire or council) at different times in the lead up to the fire season each year. It depends on the amount of rain, grassland curing rate and other local conditions and may be declared as early as October in some municipalities, and typically remains in place until the fire danger lessens, which could be as late as May.

The Fire Danger Period restricts the use of fire and potential fire starting activities in the community and covers commercial, industrial, recreational and residential activities.

Commonly overlooked are the requirements for the use of excavating or earth moving equipment, tractors, slashers, road making machines and other mobile plant etc. during Fire Danger Periods or on Total Fire Ban days.

What is the law?

During the Fire Danger Period

If the machinery is operated within 9 metres of any crops, grass, stubble, weeds, undergrowth or other vegetation the following must apply:

• The machine is fitted with a spark arrester in working order unless it is fitted with a turbocharger or an exhaust aspirated air-cleaner. The spark arrester must comply with Australian Standard AS1019.
• Is free from faults and mechanical defects that could cause an outbreak of fire, and
• Must carry at least one of the following fire suppression devices:
  • knapsack spray pump of at least 9 litres capacity, fully charged with water, in working order and compliant to AS1687, and/or
  • water (stored pressure) fire extinguisher of at least 9 litres capacity, fully charged with water, maintained at the correct pressure, in working order and compliant to AS/NZS 1841.

On days of Total Fire Ban

The same restrictions apply as for the Fire Danger Period however, if possible postpone this work as the risk of starting fires is extremely high.

What Should You Do?

Check all mobile plant if it is to be used within 9 metres of any crops, grass, stubble, weeds, undergrowth or other vegetation and ensure the correct fire suppression equipment is on hand, is fully charged and in working order, check the machine is free of faults that could start a fire, and has a correct spark arrestor in place. Make repairs if any is not present or up to standard.

Do you need assistance?

Compliance can be a mine field, if you need assistance or for further information contact SafetyZone@YCM, call Lindsay or Andrew on 5221 2611 or email to safety@safetyzoneycm.com.au