ROV Industry at Work Developing First Ever Design, Configuration and Performance Standards
Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle Association Statement Regarding Consumer Product Safety Commission’s Vote To Approve ANPR
October 22, 2009
Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle Association Continues Work on ROV Standards Development
November 24, 2009
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The Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle Association (ROHVA) is working with the industry and other interested parties to develop a voluntary American National Standard (ANSI/ROHVA 1-200X) that addresses the design and performance of ROVs sold in North America.

The ANSI standard development process requires involvement from a variety of interests. Participants involved in the process, from the US and Canada, include the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and other government representatives, industry, consumers and other interested parties. Through the ANSI process, managed by ROHVA, those participants will reach consensus on an appropriate ANSI standard for ROV equipment, configuration and performance requirements.

The proposed standard will address design, configuration and performance aspects of ROVs, including, among other items, requirements for accelerator, clutch and gearshift controls; engine and fuel cutoff devices; lighting; tires; service and parking brake/parking mechanism performance; lateral and pitch stability; occupant handholds and Roll-Over Protective Structure; occupant restraints; and requirements for safety labels and owner’s manuals.

The balloting of the first draft of this proposed ANS was completed July 27, 2009. Comments were received as part of the balloting process and were reviewed and responded to by letter. All accepted comments have been included in the current proposed standard dated October 12, 2009.

The proposed standard is open for public review and comment by directly and materially affected persons. The public comment period closes December 7, 2009. Printed review copies are available from ROHVA for $60. To request a copy contact ROHVA at (949) 255-2560, ext. 3023.

ROHVA and its member companies strongly recommend that ROV drivers and passengers follow these important safety rules:

  1. Always wear a helmet and other protective gear, use the seat belts, and keep all parts of your body inside the ROV.
  2. Never drive on paved roads except to cross when done safely and permitted by law. ROVs are designed to be operated off-highway.
  3. Drive only in designated areas, at a safe speed, and use care when turning and crossing slopes.
  4. Never drive under the influence of alcohol or other drugs.
  5. Never drive an ROV unless you’re 16 or older or have a driver’s license. ROVs are not toys.
  6. Never carry more passengers than the ROV is designed for, and never allow a passenger who is too small to sit in a passenger seat to ride in the ROV.
  7. Read and follow the operator’s manual and warning labels.

The Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle Association is a national industry organization that promotes the safe and responsible use of ROVs. ROHVA is accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) to develop equipment, configuration and performance standards. Based in Irvine, Calif., the not-for-profit association is sponsored by Arctic Cat, BRP, Polaris and Yamaha.