When It's Time to Consider a ROPS

With some simple precautions and attention to detail, it’s not too difficult to operate a tractor safely. However, there’s always an element of risk involved with heavy equipment. Learn more about the benefits of a rollover protection structure (ROPS) and how it helps prevent serious injuries on the job.

What is a ROPS?

If you’re not familiar with a ROPS, there’s a good chance the machine you’ve been operating has one and you didn’t even know. Found on many types of heavy equipment, it’s a system of bars designed to keep the tractor from flipping over completely and crushing the operator beneath the weight of the machine. The structure only allows the tractor to overturn at a 90 degree angle. This provides an opportunity to get out of a dangerous situation should something go wrong. There are three common types of ROPS, each with unique properties:

Two-Post ROPS

A two-post ROPS is the most common type. It can be found equipped on models in every series of Yanmar tractors. A two-post features two upright posts mounted at the rear axle with a crossbar at the top connecting them.

For added convenience, Yanmar’s two-post ROPS is foldable. This helps navigate tight spaces like a tree-filled orchard or a low-clearance garage. It’s important to remember that if the ROPS is folded down it doesn’t provide protection. Always lock the structure back into place after use.

Four-Post ROPS

The four-post ROPS isn’t found as frequently, but still offers essential protection. In comparison to the two-post, the four-post attaches upright posts at the rear axle as well as on the frame in front of the operator. In many cases -- such as the Yanmar SA424DHX -- the structure will also include a canopy across the top. The canopy provides weather protection and allows for the attachment of an optional soft-side or hard-side cab.

ROPS with Enclosed Cab

While the ROPS stands as its own feature, it’s sometimes paired with an enclosed cab. The cab offers a full glass enclosure with roof protection exceeding the ROPS coverage. This element is attached to the chassis during manufacturing. You can find several Yanmar tractors equipped with this extra comfort including the YT235C and YT359C.

ROPS Safety Requirements

Accidents from tractor overturns are nothing new. Regulatory bodies in the United State have been working to promote ROPS adoption across the agricultural industry for years. In 1976, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) introduced a requirement that a ROPS and a seatbelt must be provided on any tractor operated by an employee. Further, the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers established a voluntary safety standard in 1985. It encouraged tractor manufacturers to equip all new tractors with a ROPS.

Barriers to ROPS Adoption

With such a straightforward safety feature, it seems surprising many tractors would still not utilize a ROPS. However, it’s not because tractor manufacturers have refused to implement them. Rather, there are a significant number of machines still in use built before ROPS standards were widely adopted. While there are kits available to retrofit older models, many operators don’t want to sacrifice downtime and additional expense.

Additionally, tractors imported from other countries may not have the same safety standards and features. Commonly known as “gray market” tractors, they are brought to the United States for resale without the consent of the manufacturer. To make sure your tractor has all of the modern and required safety features, it’s important to always work with an authorized Yanmar dealer.

How to Reduce the Risk of Tractor Overturn

According to data from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, 45% of tractor-related fatalities in the United States are due to tractor overturns. Though this is incredibly rare in tractors equipped with a ROPS, it never hurts to brush up on best practices. Here are a few simple tips to help keep your machine upright:

Always wear your seatbelt when the tractor is in use.
Read the owner's manual to understand the operation of safety features.
Make sure the tractor is properly ballasted to distribute weight evenly.
Run the tractor up and down a slope instead of across as much as possible.
When on a slope, run the tractor in a lower gear range for more control.
Always keep the tractor in gear while operating on slopes and hilly terrain.
Be aware of your surroundings and watch for loose terrain, rocks, stumps, and other obstacles.
Always lock the foldable ROPS back into its upright position after use in a low-clearance area.
If using a front-end loader, keep the loader as low as possible at all times.

When you operate your tractor with caution and common sense, reducing risk and getting the job done safely is never in question.

Find a Yanmar Dealer Near You

Every Yanmar tractor is designed and built with a focus on durability, versatility, and operator safety. If you’d like to learn more about the features of our tractors or try one out for yourself, your local dealer is ready to help. Find an authorized dealer near you today to discover how a Yanmar can tackle your toughest jobs.

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