Survey of the Working Condition of Used Tractors in Northern Italy

The working condition of 96 used tractors of different ages and sizes was examined in Northern Italy and compared with those of new machines and the standards at present in force. The results show that from the safety point of view, performance levels do not worsen drastically with increase in vehicle age. Rusty roll-over protective structures with cracks and tears are the main danger. Controls which are difficult to operate, seats in very bad condition, high levels of noise and vibrations render the situation critical from the ergonomic point of view.