Requirements and equipment of agricultural machines

Agricultural machines must be designed to ensure safety and stability when driving on public roads in all situations: when operating alone, when towing other vehicles, and when using attached equipment. Any mounted or semi-mounted equipment must be securely fixed in all directions to prevent dangerous movement. Self-propelled machines must provide the driver with a clear field of vision, even when equipped with a closed cabin or protective structures. The driver’s seat must be easy to access, comfortable, and designed so that all controls are easy to operate.

Self-propelled agricultural machines must be equipped with essential devices for road use, including lights and visual signals to be visible to others, effective braking systems to stop safely, steering systems to control direction, noise-reducing silencers, acoustic warning devices such as a horn, rear-view mirrors to monitor traffic behind, and suitable wheels or tracks for road movement. They must also include protective guards against dangerous parts, towing devices if towing is intended, and safe transparent surfaces such as a windshield with a wiper.

Some lighter or specific types of agricultural machines may have reduced requirements, but they must still guarantee a minimum level of safety. For example, some devices may be removable, or very light machines may be exempt from certain braking requirements. Towed agricultural machines must also be equipped with essential elements such as lights, brakes (which may not always be mandatory), suitable wheels, protective devices, and coupling systems. In certain cases, if their weight is low and compatible with the towing vehicle, braking systems may not be required.

Detailed technical characteristics and equipment requirements are defined by ministerial decrees, which also take into account European and international regulations. This ensures that machines comply with updated standards regarding safety, noise levels, and environmental emissions. Additionally, all agricultural machines must comply with regulations concerning workplace safety and environmental protection, reducing risks to people and minimizing environmental impact.