Utility Terrain Vehicles (UTVs), also known as side by sides, are commonly used in agricultural settings, including the UW Agricultural Research Stations, for a variety of tasks. While UTVs have similar controls and features to highway vehicles, UTVs differ in how they operate and have many unique hazards.  

UTV hazards include:  

• Rollovers on dangerous terrain, steep slopes, and sharp turns
• Collisions with other vehicles 
• Collisions with pedestrians
• Loads falling off of the UTV
• Shifting loads that affect the UTV’s center of gravity
• Falling when entering or exiting 
• Eye injuries from flying debris and particles

To ensure UTV operators are aware of these hazards and the controls necessary to safely operate a UTV, an online UTV operator training was created for employees to complete prior to operating a UTV. Operator training must consist of both classroom (online training) and hands-on training. The online classroom portion of the training can be accessed by clicking on the link below. Departments utilizing UTVs are responsible for providing the hands-on training covering the specific types of UTVs operated and site-specific hazards. All departments completing the hands-on portion of the training must document completion of the training. Information that needs to be documented includes the name of the operator, the date of the training, and the identity of the person(s) performing the training. Refresher training must be completed when a serious incident such as injury or property damage involving a UTV occurs.

To access the online portion of the UTV training, click on the link below.

Training: 

CALS Utility Terrain Vehicle (UTV) Training

Additional Resources: 

USDA Utility-Terrain Vehicle Operator Training Course: Instructor’s Guide