November 12, 2020
New policy for golf carts, ATVs and industrial vehicles and equipment
Submitted by Christina Aguilera
The university has developed a new industrial and utility mobile equipment policy, PPM Chapter 3720.110. The new procedures will enable operators of K-State industrial and utility vehicles — such as golf carts, ATVs, farm equipment and riding mowers — to avoid situations that may result in serious injury and death.
The policy requires operator training and identifies minimum safety standards for the maintenance and operation of this type of equipment on all campuses and satellite locations. The policy does not cover fleet or motor pool vehicle requirements, which are addressed in PPM Chapter 6420.
The policy also references an existing Traffic and Parking Regulation PDF, which requires that ATV, UTV or golf cart type vehicles on the Manhattan campus to be clearly marked with the department name, vehicle number and a contact phone number. University Printing can prepare labels to mark vehicles in accordance with the parking regulation.
The Environmental Health and Safety Department may develop general training tool(s). However, due to the diversity of these vehicles and equipment, departments must ensure that equipment-specific training is provided that addresses the unique hazards and risks associated with the equipment or vehicle and its safe operation.
Contact Environmental Health and Safety at safety@k-state.edu and include "gator policy" in the subject line for additional information.