A SEASONAL warning about safety in tractors without cabs has been issued to farmers in East Lancashire.

The Government's Health and Safety Executive claims many farmers are not aware of changes in regulations concerning the use of cabless tractors.

Tractors that were subject to the Agriculture (Tractor Cabs) Regulations 1974 had to have a safety cab unless solely driven by a self-employed person or were under a certain weight.

But the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 changed this with effect from last December and all tractors over 560 kg now need a safety cab or roll bar.

HSE Lancashire spokesman Pete Lennon said: "All tractors, with a few exceptions, should have a safety cab or complete roll bar fitted when used for work.

"The only exception to this rule is when farmers are working in an orchard or hop field, or where the tractor is used around low buildings, where the roll bar may be lowered or removed temporarily."

Before 1974 there were approximately 45 deaths a year from overturning tractors. This has now reduced, but there are still fatalities as a result of tractors with no cabs or roll bar protection overturning, the HSE today said.

Mr Lennon added: "Safety cabs, roll bars and lap belts do save lives at minimal costs and we are issuing this warning at the start of agriculture's busiest period."

Farmers in breach of the regulations could be prosecuted and risk fines or imprisonment.

Further details are available from the Health and Safety Executive in Preston on 01772 836229.