Tractors - Trailers and Wagons

What precautions should you take when using trailers or wagons?

Always read, understand and follow the manufacturer’s safety manual.
Use a tractor with enough power to both pull and stop the load safely.
Only use equipment that is in good repair. Equipment should be inspected frequently for signs of wear and damage.
Check the tires on trailers and wagons for proper inflation, damage and wear daily, before loading, and throughout the workday.
Use standard hand signals when someone is helping with hitching. Make sure you and the person you are working with have coordinated the signals.
Use a locking jack, or jack and blocks, for hitching and unhitching a two-wheeled or tandem centre-balanced wagon.
Use only recommended sizes and types of locking safety hitch pins.
Attach the safety chain from the tractor to the frame of the towed equipment.
The breaking strength of safety chains must be equal to hold the total actual weight of the towed implement and any load it is carrying.

Distribute loads evenly and securely.
Start and stop the tractor smoothly.
Drive at a speed safe for conditions, load, and the capabilities of the tractor.
Watch for low branches, eaves and power lines when handling high loads.
Make sure the implements are put in transport positions before taking them on the road.
If applicable, attach a slow-moving vehicle sign (red-orange, fluorescent triangle), red flag or marker, and any appropriate lighting and reflectors.

Do not overload.
Do not allow anyone to ride on the tongue of a wagon or trailer.
Do not allow anyone to ride on or in the wagon or trailer unless it is designed to transport passengers safely.
Do not allow anyone to be between the tractor and wagon or trailer when in motion.
Do not travel faster than 25 km/h.
Do not drive over debris or obstacles that could damage the tires.
Do not drive through ditches, steep banks, and other obstacles that could cause damage or a rollover.
Do not tow wagons or trailers weighing more than the tractor unless the trailer or wagon is equipped with brakes appropriate for the weight and speed of travel.

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