BSI BS EN 17968:2026

This document specifies the safety requirements relevant to load-handling functions for rough-terrain variable reach tractors (RTVR tractors). This includes the safety requirements for their permanently mounted equipment (PME). Fork arms are considered to be part of the PME. RTVR tractors can also be equipped with a variety of attachments (e.g. bale spikes, mowers, sweepers).

This document deals with all the significant hazards, hazardous situations and events relevant to the operation of the PME of RTVR tractors when they are used as intended and under conditions of misuse which are reasonably foreseeable by the manufacturer (see Annex A).

This document does not apply to:

• rough-terrain variable-reach trucks covered by EN 1459 1:2025;
• slewing rough-terrain variable-reach trucks covered by EN 1459 2:2015+A1:2018;
• industrial variable reach trucks covered by EN ISO 3691 2:2023;
• lorry-mounted variable-reach trucks covered by ISO 20297 1:2017;
• RTVR tractors fitted with tilting or elevating operator position;
• mobile cranes covered by EN 13000:2010+A1:2014;
• machines designed primarily for earth moving, even if their buckets and blades are replaced with forks (see the EN 474 series);
• RTVR tractors designed primarily with variable length load suspension elements (e.g. chain, ropes) from which the load can swing freely in all directions;
• RTVR tractors designed primarily for container handling;
• RTVR tractors on tracks;
• RTVR tractors with articulated chassis;
• front loaders covered by EN 12525:2000+A2:2010;
• attachments.

Determination and declaration of sound power level is not addressed by this document. This document does not cover sales literature.

Consistency of single lever (if fitted) and movement of the RTVR tractor when travelling in the forward direction is not covered by this document.

This document does not address hazards linked to:

• operation of the RTVR tractor from a position other than the normal operating position or the remote control;
• gas power systems;
• gasoline engine systems.

This document does not address hazards which can occur:

• a) when handling suspended loads which can swing freely (additional requirements are given in EN 1459 4:2020+A1:2025);
• b) when using RTVR tractors on public roads;
• c) when operating in potentially explosive atmospheres (additional requirements are given in EN 1755:2024);
• d) when operating underground;
• e) when towing trailers;
• f) when fitted with a personnel work platform (additional requirements are given in EN 1459 3:2015 and EN 1459 9:2021);
• g) when using system capable of controlling the speed of the RTVR tractor as set by the operator (cruise-control).

This document does not provide a method of calculation for fatigue and strength of material.

This document is not applicable to RTVR tractors manufactured before the date of its publication.