FARMERS in Teesdale and Weardale who use unsafe quad bikes are being targeted by inspectors from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

The inspectors will be visiting farms during December to check that people using quad bike are adequately trained, wear suitable head protection and properly maintain their vehicles.

Quad bike dealers will also be visited to assess the safety information they provide to customers.

The HSE will take enforcement action against people not complying with regulations, including issuing prohibition and improvement notices.

Last year, transport-related injuries accounted for 12 out of 32 fatal accidents in agriculture.

Peter Dodman, the HSE's principal inspector for agricultural activities in the area, said: "If an impact is to be made on the injury toll, preventing transport-related accidents must be a priority for all farmers. Our inspectors commonly meet farmers who think they don't need to wear a helmet or get any formal training."

The HSE has produced a range of advice publications. Details are available at www.hse.gov.uk, or by calling the HSE InfoLine on (08701) 545500, or HSE books on (01787) 881165. Advice is also available from the local HSE office on 0191-202 6200.