EC ponders changes to boost tractor safety and cut red tape

THE European Commission is contemplating various regulatory changes to improve tractor safety and cut the red tape faced by manufacturers.

New standards are likely to compulsorily demand the fitting of anti-lock braking systems on all new tractors and trailers that can travel in excess of 25mph as well as improved deceleration performance. The commission is also seeking safety improvements in tractor and trailer compatibility.

The proposals are contained in a consultation that will be sent to Europe’s council of ministers and the European Parliament.

Other proposed safety measures include demands for shorter braking distances and the introduction of hydrostatic systems.

The simplification being sought in production standards for agricultural and forestry vehicles would cover all types of tractors, trailers and towed equipment.

Fifty different European directives as well as all the different implementing rules in the 27 member states currently cover this area. The commission wants to replace then with just five regulations.

Commission vice-president Antonio Tajani said: “The proposal is an example how we can make EU legislation lighter while increasing the safety of agricultural vehicles. Working with 50 different directives and the many pieces of national implementing legislation is more costly and burdensome for the industry than necessary. The proposal would increase safety of tractors while reducing administrative costs.”

NFU Scotland welcomed the changes in principle, although it said it still waited to see if the reforms would cut red tape and costs.

President Jim McLaren added: “The commission’s proposals are positive in that they could boil down a significant number of complex regulations into a smaller package. I also wholeheartedly support any move to improve the safety of farm vehicles and therefore look forward to reading the document in greater detail.

“NFU Scotland is consulting urgently with its EU colleagues to investigate the implications of these new proposals, particularly with reference to existing vehicles.”