ROPS Retrofitting: Measuring Effectiveness of Incentives and Uncovering Inherent Barriers to Success

Abstract

Tractor overturns are the leading cause of all tractor- and machinery-relatedfatalities in the agricultural industry. A rollover protective structure (ROPS) on a tractor isthe most effective mechanism for protecting a tractor operator’s life during a tractor overturnincident. Unfortunately, about half of all tractors presently in operation in the U.S. do not havea ROPS. Retrofitting such tractors with ROPS could result in an as much as a 99% reductionin fatalities associated with tractor overturns. The overall aim of this study was to determinethe level of financial incentive required to motivate the maximum number of farmers to installROPS on non-ROPS equipped tractors and thus affect the greatest level of change within thefarming community. This was done by offering a range of subsidy levels by percentage and notby specific dollar amounts to a random sampling of New York farms. A secondary goal wasto find any hidden problems associated with retrofitting. Study results showed that cost wasnot the only factor affecting farmers’ reluctance to retrofit. A perceived and actual “hasslefactor” was found to be endemic to the retrofitting process and a significant obstacle tofarmers’ willingness to retrofit, no matter the level of financial subsidy.