kSIST FprEN 17968:2026
(Main)Rough-terrain variable-reach tractors - Safety requirements and verification for permanently mounted equipment
- Abstract
This document specifies the safety requirements relevant to load-handling functions for rough-terrain variable reach tractors (RTVR tractors). This includes the safety requirements for their permanently mounted equipment (PME).
Fork arms are considered to be part of the PME. RTVR tractors can also be equipped with a variety of attachments (e.g. bale spikes, mowers, sweepers).
This document deals with all the significant hazards, hazardous situations and events relevant to the operation of the PME of RTVR tractors when they are used as intended and under conditions of misuse which are reasonably foreseeable by the manufacturer (see Annex A).
This document does not apply to:
— rough-terrain variable-reach trucks covered by EN 1459 1:2025;
— slewing rough-terrain variable-reach trucks covered by EN 1459 2:2015+A1:2018;
— industrial variable reach trucks covered by EN ISO 3691 2:2023;
— lorry-mounted variable-reach trucks covered by ISO 20297 1:2017;
— RVTR tractors fitted with tilting or elevating operator position;
— mobile cranes covered by EN 13000:2010+A1:2014;
— machines designed primarily for earth moving, even if their buckets and blades are replaced with forks (see the EN 474 series);
— RVTR tractors designed primarily with variable length load suspension elements (e.g. chain, ropes) from which the load can swing freely in all directions;
— RVTR tractors designed primarily for container handling;
— RVTR tractors on tracks;
— RVTR tractors with articulated chassis;
— front loaders covered by EN 12525:2000+A2:2010;
— attachments.
Determination and declaration of sound power level is not addressed by this document.
This document does not cover sales literature.
Consistency of single lever (if fitted) and movement of the RVTR tractor when travelling in the forward direction is not covered by this document.
This document does not address hazards linked to:
— operation of the RTVR tractor from a position other than the normal operating position or the remote control;
— gas power systems;
— gasoline engine systems.
This document does not address hazards which can occur:
a) when handling suspended loads which can swing freely (additional requirements are given in EN 1459 4:2020+A1:2025);
b) when using RTVR tractors on public roads;
c) when operating in potentially explosive atmospheres (additional requirements are given in EN 1755:2024);
d) when operating underground;
e) when towing trailers;
f) when fitted with a personnel work platform (additional requirements are given in EN 1459 3:2015 and EN 1459 9:2021);
g) when using system capable of controlling the speed of the RTVR tractor as set by the operator (cruise-control).
This document does not provide a method of calculation for fatigue and strength of material.
This document is not applicable to RTVR tractors manufactured before the date of its publication.
- Status
- Not Published
- Public Enquiry End Date
- 30-Jul-2025
- Technical Committee
- DTN - Lift and transport appliances
- Current Stage
- 5020 - Formal vote (FV) (Adopted Project)
- Start Date
- 03-Jul-2026
- Due Date
- 21-Aug-2026
- Completion Date
- 26-Aug-2026
kSIST FprEN 17968:2026 is the SIST adoption of prEN 17968, a draft European Standard for rough-terrain variable-reach tractors (RTVR tractors). It specifies safety requirements and verification for load-handling functions and permanently mounted equipment (PME), so manufacturers, test labs, buyers, and safety teams can design and check these machines against a common safety basis.
What does kSIST FprEN 17968:2026 specify?
kSIST FprEN 17968:2026 specifies safety requirements for the load-handling functions of RTVR tractors and for their permanently mounted equipment (PME). Fork arms are treated as part of the PME, while attachments may be fitted to the machine but are outside the scope of the document.
The standard covers significant hazards, hazardous situations, and reasonably foreseeable misuse during intended use. It excludes other truck and machine types, such as slewing variable-reach trucks, industrial variable-reach trucks, lorry-mounted variable-reach trucks, mobile cranes, front loaders, tracked machines, articulated-chassis machines, earth-moving machines, and attachments.
It also leaves out several specific topics and operating cases, including sound power declaration, sales literature, fatigue and material strength calculation methods, public-road use, underground use, towing trailers, operation in explosive atmospheres, personnel work platforms, suspended loads that can swing freely, cruise-control systems, and machine versions manufactured before publication.
The document is organized into Clauses 1 to 6 and three annexes.
| Annex | What it covers |
|---|---|
| Annex A | Informative list of significant hazards |
| Annex B | Informative consistency of motions |
| Annex C | Normative rules for the construction and layout of pedals |
What are the key requirements of kSIST FprEN 17968:2026?
kSIST FprEN 17968:2026 sets out the machine-specific safety measures that matter most in design, verification, and use. Clause 4 is the core of the standard, Clause 5 explains how to verify the requirements, and Clause 6 defines the information that must be supplied to users.
Safety functions and control systems
Clause 4.2 requires protection against unauthorized starting, unintended movement, and powered travel when the operator is not at the normal operating position. In practice, this means the machine must not move or restart in a way that could surprise the operator or bystanders.
Clause 4.4 and Table 2 require safety-related parts of control systems to achieve the required performance level (PLr) or safety integrity level (SIL). This matters because the document ties key functions - such as travel inhibition, parking brake logic, boom float, remote control, and stabilizing-device logic - to defined safety targets.
The document also requires electrical and electronic components to be protected against their environment, wiring to be identified, and exposed high-voltage ignition terminals to be guarded. For a designer or buyer, this is the part that drives enclosure choice, wiring documentation, and control-system validation.
Load handling, lifting, and stability
Clause 4.8 and Clause 4.10 address stabilizing devices, lifting and reaching systems, hydraulic systems, fork arms, and attachment interfaces. The machine has to hold loads safely, limit stroke where over-travel could damage the structure, and use fork arms that match the rated capacity.
Clause 4.10.2 requires hydraulic protection against overpressure, contamination, and load loss if there is leakage, a fault, or a power interruption. That means the load must stay controlled even when the hydraulic system is not behaving normally.
Clause 4.14 requires compliance with the stability test standard used for RTVR tractors, together with a longitudinal load moment indicator (LLMI) and a longitudinal load moment control (LLMC). Where the manufacturer foresees special operating conditions, additional stability tests apply, so load charts and operating limits must match the actual configuration.
Operator station, access, and protection
Clause 4.11 and Clause 4.13 set the requirements for the operator’s station, seat, restraint system, visibility aids, lighting, guards, and protective structures. The machine must provide safe access, a suitable restraint system, and a protected operator position with ROPS and FOPS.
The standard also requires visibility, wipers, washers, interior lighting, and clear display symbols. In practical terms, this supports safe work in darkness, bad weather, or reduced visibility around the load.
Clause 4.13.4, 4.17, and 4.18 add protection around the engine compartment, fire protection provisions, and safe points for lifting, tying-down, and retrieval. These features matter during maintenance, transport, and recovery of the machine.
Information for use, marking, and load charts
Clause 6 requires clear instructions, markings, safety signs, and load charts. The PME must be marked with identification, rated capacity, year of construction, and other key data, and load charts must show what the machine can carry in the actual configuration.
The instruction handbook must cover operation, maintenance, inspections, approved attachments, safe transport, lifting, towing, visibility, noise, vibration, and residual risks. For a user, this is the part that turns the machine from a design into a usable and documentable product.
What terms does kSIST FprEN 17968:2026 define?
- rough-terrain variable-reach tractor (RTVR tractor) - A wheeled agricultural or forestry tractor with a telescopic articulated arm used for stacking loads, with no slewing or only very limited slewing.
- permanently mounted equipment (PME) - The load-handling part of the RTVR tractor, including the telescopic articulated arm and the load-handling device fitted to it.
- actual capacity (Q) - The maximum load the manufacturer says the machine can carry, lift, and stack in a given configuration and operating condition.
- rated capacity (Q1) - The maximum load allowed on fork arms with the boom fully retracted and at the standard load centre distance.
- reach (d) - The horizontal distance used to describe how far the load is positioned relative to the front tyres.
- standard load centre distance (D) - The load-centre reference used for capacity rating and load charts.
- longitudinal load moment indicator (LLMI) - A device that indicates load-moment conditions affecting stability.
- longitudinal load moment control (LLMC) - A control device that limits or manages load-moment conditions to help maintain stability.
Who uses kSIST FprEN 17968:2026?
kSIST FprEN 17968:2026 is used by the people who design, verify, buy, operate, and regulate RTVR tractors and their PME. It is most useful where safety evidence has to be linked to a specific machine configuration and load-handling function.
- Manufacturers and design engineers use it to design controls, structure, hydraulics, operator stations, markings, and load charts.
- Test laboratories and verification teams use it for functional, static, dynamic, and load-holding checks.
- Quality managers and buyers use it to compare machines, review load charts, and check the supplied instructions and markings.
- Regulators, market surveillance bodies, and accident prevention organizations use it to assess whether a machine has been designed and verified against the relevant safety baseline.
- Service and maintenance providers use it for support devices, access, maintenance instructions, and safe handling of the machine during servicing.
What changed in kSIST FprEN 17968:2026 from the previous edition?
kSIST FprEN 17968:2026 supersedes CEN/TS 1459-8:2018. Compared with that earlier edition, the document states these technical changes:
- alignment to the requirements of EN 1459-1:2025
- updated normative references
- other minor changes, mainly editorial clarifications of existing requirements
Which standards are used with kSIST FprEN 17968:2026?
kSIST FprEN 17968:2026 relies on several referenced standards for risk reduction, testing, and component requirements.
| Referenced standard | What it contributes |
|---|---|
| EN ISO 12100:2010 | General risk assessment and risk reduction, and the basis for information for use |
| EN ISO 13849-1:2023 | Performance level requirements for safety-related parts of control systems |
| EN IEC 62061:2021 | SIL-based safety performance for safety-related electrical, electronic, and programmable electronic control systems |
| EN ISO 4413:2010 | Hydraulic system safety rules |
| EN ISO 3471:2008 | Roll-over protective structures (ROPS) |
| EN ISO 3449:2008 | Falling-object protective structures (FOPS) |
| EN 15000:2008 | Longitudinal load moment indicators and limiters, and the lowering-speed check |
| EN 15830:2012 | Visibility test methods and verification |
| EN 12053:2001+A1:2008 | Noise emission measurement |
| EN 13059:2002+A1:2008 | Vibration measurement |
| EN ISO 6683:2008 | Seat belts and seat belt anchorages |
| EN 17314:2020 | Operator restraint systems other than lap-type seat belts |
| EN 1459-5:2020 | Attachment interface requirements |
| ISO 15817:2012 | Remote operator control systems |
| ISO 15818:2017 | Lifting and tying-down attachment points |
| ISO 2330:2002 | Fork arm technical characteristics and testing |
| ISO 2328:2011 | Hook-on type fork arms and fork arm carriages |
| ISO 22915-14:2010 | Stability verification for rough-terrain variable-reach trucks |
| ISO 22915-10:2023 | Additional stability test for lateral load displacement |
| ISO 22915-20:2023 | Additional stability test for offset load |
| ISO 12509:2023 | Lighting, signalling, marking lights, and reflectors |
| ISO 7000:2019 | Registered graphical symbols used on the machine and displays |
| ISO 15870:2000 | Safety signs and hazard pictorials |
| EN 60529:1991 | Degrees of protection provided by enclosures (IP code) |
The document also names companion parts for related cases, including EN 1459-4 for freely suspended loads, EN 1459-3 and EN 1459-9 for personnel work platforms, and EN 1755 for potentially explosive atmospheres.
What does the kSIST FprEN 17968:2026 document contain?
kSIST FprEN 17968:2026 contains the full set of safety requirements, verification methods, and user-information rules for RTVR tractors with PME. It includes tables for safety-related control-system performance, motion consistency guidance, and chain strength factors, plus figures for machine geometry, load-capacity parameters, symbols, and an example load chart.
The document also contains the verification procedures for functional checks, static tests, dynamic tests, and load-holding checks. Those procedures are used to show that the machine operates safely, supports load, and retains controlled motion under expected and fault conditions.
It includes the rules for markings, warning symbols, instruction handbook content, and load chart content. Annex B gives the intended direction relationships for operator movements and machine functions, and Annex C gives the normative pedal layout and pedal-design rules.
Relations
- Effective Date
- 19-Jan-2023
- Effective Date
- 18-Jan-2023
- Effective Date
- 28-Dec-2022
Frequently Asked Questions
kSIST FprEN 17968:2026 is a draft published by the Slovenian Institute for Standardization (SIST). Its full title is "Rough-terrain variable-reach tractors - Safety requirements and verification for permanently mounted equipment". This standard covers: This document specifies the safety requirements relevant to load-handling functions for rough-terrain variable reach tractors (RTVR tractors). This includes the safety requirements for their permanently mounted equipment (PME). Fork arms are considered to be part of the PME. RTVR tractors can also be equipped with a variety of attachments (e.g. bale spikes, mowers, sweepers). This document deals with all the significant hazards, hazardous situations and events relevant to the operation of the PME of RTVR tractors when they are used as intended and under conditions of misuse which are reasonably foreseeable by the manufacturer (see Annex A). This document does not apply to: — rough-terrain variable-reach trucks covered by EN 1459 1:2025; — slewing rough-terrain variable-reach trucks covered by EN 1459 2:2015+A1:2018; — industrial variable reach trucks covered by EN ISO 3691 2:2023; — lorry-mounted variable-reach trucks covered by ISO 20297 1:2017; — RVTR tractors fitted with tilting or elevating operator position; — mobile cranes covered by EN 13000:2010+A1:2014; — machines designed primarily for earth moving, even if their buckets and blades are replaced with forks (see the EN 474 series); — RVTR tractors designed primarily with variable length load suspension elements (e.g. chain, ropes) from which the load can swing freely in all directions; — RVTR tractors designed primarily for container handling; — RVTR tractors on tracks; — RVTR tractors with articulated chassis; — front loaders covered by EN 12525:2000+A2:2010; — attachments. Determination and declaration of sound power level is not addressed by this document. This document does not cover sales literature. Consistency of single lever (if fitted) and movement of the RVTR tractor when travelling in the forward direction is not covered by this document. This document does not address hazards linked to: — operation of the RTVR tractor from a position other than the normal operating position or the remote control; — gas power systems; — gasoline engine systems. This document does not address hazards which can occur: a) when handling suspended loads which can swing freely (additional requirements are given in EN 1459 4:2020+A1:2025); b) when using RTVR tractors on public roads; c) when operating in potentially explosive atmospheres (additional requirements are given in EN 1755:2024); d) when operating underground; e) when towing trailers; f) when fitted with a personnel work platform (additional requirements are given in EN 1459 3:2015 and EN 1459 9:2021); g) when using system capable of controlling the speed of the RTVR tractor as set by the operator (cruise-control). This document does not provide a method of calculation for fatigue and strength of material. This document is not applicable to RTVR tractors manufactured before the date of its publication.
This document specifies the safety requirements relevant to load-handling functions for rough-terrain variable reach tractors (RTVR tractors). This includes the safety requirements for their permanently mounted equipment (PME). Fork arms are considered to be part of the PME. RTVR tractors can also be equipped with a variety of attachments (e.g. bale spikes, mowers, sweepers). This document deals with all the significant hazards, hazardous situations and events relevant to the operation of the PME of RTVR tractors when they are used as intended and under conditions of misuse which are reasonably foreseeable by the manufacturer (see Annex A). This document does not apply to: — rough-terrain variable-reach trucks covered by EN 1459 1:2025; — slewing rough-terrain variable-reach trucks covered by EN 1459 2:2015+A1:2018; — industrial variable reach trucks covered by EN ISO 3691 2:2023; — lorry-mounted variable-reach trucks covered by ISO 20297 1:2017; — RVTR tractors fitted with tilting or elevating operator position; — mobile cranes covered by EN 13000:2010+A1:2014; — machines designed primarily for earth moving, even if their buckets and blades are replaced with forks (see the EN 474 series); — RVTR tractors designed primarily with variable length load suspension elements (e.g. chain, ropes) from which the load can swing freely in all directions; — RVTR tractors designed primarily for container handling; — RVTR tractors on tracks; — RVTR tractors with articulated chassis; — front loaders covered by EN 12525:2000+A2:2010; — attachments. Determination and declaration of sound power level is not addressed by this document. This document does not cover sales literature. Consistency of single lever (if fitted) and movement of the RVTR tractor when travelling in the forward direction is not covered by this document. This document does not address hazards linked to: — operation of the RTVR tractor from a position other than the normal operating position or the remote control; — gas power systems; — gasoline engine systems. This document does not address hazards which can occur: a) when handling suspended loads which can swing freely (additional requirements are given in EN 1459 4:2020+A1:2025); b) when using RTVR tractors on public roads; c) when operating in potentially explosive atmospheres (additional requirements are given in EN 1755:2024); d) when operating underground; e) when towing trailers; f) when fitted with a personnel work platform (additional requirements are given in EN 1459 3:2015 and EN 1459 9:2021); g) when using system capable of controlling the speed of the RTVR tractor as set by the operator (cruise-control). This document does not provide a method of calculation for fatigue and strength of material. This document is not applicable to RTVR tractors manufactured before the date of its publication.
kSIST FprEN 17968:2026 is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 53.060 - Industrial trucks. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.
kSIST FprEN 17968:2026 has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to SIST-TS CEN/TS 1459-8:2019, SIST-TS CEN/TS 1459-8:2019, SIST-TS CEN/TS 1459-8:2019. Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.
kSIST FprEN 17968:2026 is associated with the following European legislation: EU Directives/Regulations: 2006/42/EC. When a standard is cited in the Official Journal of the European Union, products manufactured in conformity with it benefit from a presumption of conformity with the essential requirements of the corresponding EU directive or regulation.
kSIST FprEN 17968:2026 is available in PDF format for immediate download after purchase. The document can be added to your cart and obtained through the secure checkout process. Digital delivery ensures instant access to the complete standard document.
Standards Content (Sample)
SLOVENSKI STANDARD
oSIST prEN 17968:2025
01-julij-2025
Traktorji z mehanizmom s spremenljivim dosegom- Terenska vozila - Varnostne
zahteve in preverjanje za trajno nameščeno opremo
Rough-terrain variable-reach tractors - Safety requirements and verification for
permanently mounted equipment
Geländegängige Traktoren mit veränderlicher Reichweite - Sicherheitstechnische
Anforderungen und Verifizierung für permanent montierte Ausrüstung
Tracteurs tout-terrain à portée-variable - Exigences de sécurité et vérification pour les
équipements montés en permanence
Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z: prEN 17968
ICS:
53.060 Industrijski tovornjaki Industrial trucks
oSIST prEN 17968:2025 en,fr,de
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.
oSIST prEN 17968:2025
oSIST prEN 17968:2025
DRAFT
EUROPEAN STANDARD
prEN 17968
NORME EUROPÉENNE
EUROPÄISCHE NORM
June 2025
ICS 53.060 Will supersede CEN/TS 1459-8:2018
English Version
Rough-terrain variable-reach tractors - Safety
requirements and verification for permanently mounted
equipment
Tracteurs tout-terrain à portée-variable - Prescriptions Geländegängige Traktor mit veränderlicher Reichweite
de sécurité et vérification - Sicherheitstechnische Anforderungen und
Verifizierung
This draft European Standard is submitted to CEN members for enquiry. It has been drawn up by the Technical Committee
CEN/TC 150.
If this draft becomes a European Standard, CEN members are bound to comply with the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations
which stipulate the conditions for giving this European Standard the status of a national standard without any alteration.
This draft European Standard was established by CEN in three official versions (English, French, German). A version in any other
language made by translation under the responsibility of a CEN member into its own language and notified to the CEN-CENELEC
Management Centre has the same status as the official versions.
CEN members are the national standards bodies of Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia,
Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway,
Poland, Portugal, Republic of North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Türkiye and
United Kingdom.
Recipients of this draft are invited to submit, with their comments, notification of any relevant patent rights of which they are
aware and to provide supporting documentation.
Warning : This document is not a European Standard. It is distributed for review and comments. It is subject to change without
notice and shall not be referred to as a European Standard.
EUROPEAN COMMITTEE FOR STANDARDIZATION
COMITÉ EUROPÉEN DE NORMALISATION
EUROPÄISCHES KOMITEE FÜR NORMUNG
CEN-CENELEC Management Centre: Rue de la Science 23, B-1040 Brussels
© 2025 CEN All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved Ref. No. prEN 17968:2025 E
worldwide for CEN national Members.
oSIST prEN 17968:2025
prEN 17968:2025 (E)
Contents Page
European foreword . 5
Introduction . 6
1 Scope . 8
2 Normative references . 9
3 Terms and definitions . 11
4 Safety requirements and/or protective/risk reduction measures . 17
4.1 General. 17
4.1.1 Introduction . 17
4.1.2 Sharp edges and acute angles . 17
4.1.3 Stored energy components . 17
4.2 Starting/stopping of engine and moving machine . 17
4.2.1 Unauthorized starting . 17
4.2.2 Stopping system . 17
4.2.3 Unintended movement . 17
4.2.4 Uncontrolled motion . 18
4.2.5 Powered travel movement . 18
4.2.6 Non-activation of the parking brake . 18
4.3 Brakes . 18
4.3.1 General. 18
4.3.2 Failure of energy supply . 18
4.3.3 Holding performance . 18
4.4 Electrical and electronic systems . 19
4.4.1 General. 19
4.4.2 Safety related parts of control systems . 19
4.4.3 Degree of protection . 19
4.4.4 Identification of wiring . 19
4.4.5 Protection against electric shock . 19
4.4.6 Batteries . 19
4.5 Controls at the normal operating position . 19
4.5.1 General. 19
4.5.2 Differential locking . 20
4.5.3 Steering controls . 20
4.5.4 Load handling controls . 22
4.5.5 Multi-function controls . 22
4.5.6 Stabilizing device control . 22
4.5.7 Sway/levelling control . 23
4.5.8 Axle oscillation locking . 23
4.6 Remote control . 23
4.7 Power systems and accessories . 24
4.7.1 Exhaust system . 24
4.7.2 Cooling system . 24
4.7.3 Tanks and pressure vessels . 24
4.8 Stabilizing devices . 24
4.9 Design requirements for maintenance purposes . 26
4.9.1 General. 26
oSIST prEN 17968:2025
prEN 17968:2025 (E)
4.9.2 Boom support device . 26
4.9.3 Tiltable cab support device . 27
4.10 Systems for lifting, tilting and reaching . 27
4.10.1 Chains and wire ropes . 27
4.10.2 Hydraulic system . 28
4.10.3 Maximum load lowering speed . 29
4.10.4 Limitation of stroke . 29
4.10.5 Fork arms . 29
4.10.6 Attachment interface . 30
4.11 Operator’s station . 30
4.11.1 General requirements . 30
4.11.2 Operator’s manual storage . 30
4.11.3 Pipes and hoses . 30
4.11.4 Operator's station . 30
4.11.5 Operator's seat . 32
4.11.6 Control panels, and symbols on displays . 33
4.12 Operator access . 33
4.12.1 General requirements . 33
4.12.2 Operator’s station openings . 33
4.13 Protective measures and devices . 33
4.13.1 Hot parts . 33
4.13.2 Protection against crushing, shearing and trapping . 33
4.13.3 Guards . 34
4.13.4 Engine compartment . 34
4.13.5 Fenders . 34
4.13.6 ROPS and FOPS . 34
4.13.7 Audible warning devices . 34
4.14 Stability requirements . 34
4.15 Visibility . 35
4.16 Lighting . 35
4.17 Fire protection . 35
4.17.1 Fire resistance . 35
4.17.2 Fire extinguisher . 35
4.18 Retrieval, transportation and lifting . 35
4.18.1 General . 35
4.18.2 Retrieval . 35
4.18.3 Tying-down . 35
4.18.4 Lifting . 36
4.19 Noise . 36
4.19.1 Noise emission reduction . 36
4.19.2 Emission sound pressure level at the operator's station . 37
4.20 Electromagnetic radiation . 37
5 Verification of safety requirements and/or protective/risk reduction measures . 37
5.1 General . 37
5.2 Functional verification . 37
5.3 Structural verification . 37
5.3.1 Test loads . 37
5.3.2 Static test . 38
5.3.3 Dynamic tests . 38
5.4 Load holding verification . 39
6 Information for use . 39
6.1 General . 39
oSIST prEN 17968:2025
prEN 17968:2025 (E)
6.2 Graphical symbols and warning . 39
6.2.1 Safety signs and graphical symbols . 39
6.2.2 Graphical symbol of lift points . 39
6.2.3 Graphical symbol of tie-down points . 40
6.2.4 Graphical symbol of retrieval points . 40
6.2.5 Graphical symbol for pneumatic tyre inflation pressures . 41
6.2.6 Graphical symbol for fuel filling points . 41
6.2.7 Graphical symbol for hydraulic fluid filling points . 42
6.2.8 Graphical symbols for stored energy components . 42
6.2.9 Graphical symbol for brake fluid filling points . 43
6.2.10 Graphical symbol for battery disconnection . 44
6.2.11 Warnings . 44
6.3 Instruction handbook. 44
6.3.1 General. 44
6.3.2 Operating and maintenance instructions . 45
6.4 Marking of PME . 48
6.5 Load chart . 49
Annex A (informative) List of significant hazards . 51
Annex B (informative) Consistency of motions . 57
Annex C (normative) Rules for the construction and layout of pedals . 59
C.1 Definitions . 59
C.1.1 pedal . 59
C.1.2 service brake pedal . 59
C.1.3 clutch pedal . 59
C.1.4 inching pedal . 59
C.1.5 accelerator pedal . 59
C.2 Requirements . 59
C.2.1 General. 59
C.2.2 Service brake pedal . 59
C.2.3 Clutch pedal . 60
C.2.4 Accelerator pedal . 60
C.2.5 Inching pedal . 60
C.3 Design and manufacture . 60
Bibliography . 62
oSIST prEN 17968:2025
prEN 17968:2025 (E)
European foreword
This document (prEN 17968:2025) has been prepared by Technical Committee CEN/TC 150 “Industrial
trucks - Safety”, the secretariat of which is held by BSI.
This document will supersede CEN/TS 1459-8:2018.
In comparison with the previous edition CEN/TS 1459-8:2018, the following technical modifications
have been made:
— alignment to requirements of EN 1459-1:2025;
— update of normative references;
— other minor changes, mainly editorial clarifications of existing requirements.
This document has been prepared under a standardization request given to CEN by the European
Commission. The Standing Committee of the EFTA States subsequently approves these requests for its
Member States.
oSIST prEN 17968:2025
prEN 17968:2025 (E)
Introduction
This document covers general safety requirements and the means for verification of these requirements
for rough-terrain variable-reach tractors (RTVR tractors).
All quantities are in SI units, and this includes metric units.
This document is a type C standard as stated in EN ISO 12100:2010.
This document is of relevance, in particular, for the following stakeholder groups representing the market
players with regard to machinery safety:
— machine manufacturers (small, medium and large enterprises);
— health and safety bodies (regulators, accident prevention organizations, market surveillance etc.).
Others can be affected by the level of machinery safety achieved with the means of the document by the
above-mentioned stakeholder groups:
— machine users/employers (small, medium and large enterprises);
— machine users/employees (e.g. trade unions, organizations for people with special needs);
— service providers, e.g. for maintenance (small, medium and large enterprises);
— consumers (in case of machinery intended for use by consumers).
The above-mentioned stakeholder groups have been given the possibility to participate at the drafting
process of this document.
The machinery concerned and the extent to which hazards, hazardous situations or hazardous events are
covered are indicated in the scope of this document.
When provisions of this type C standard are different from those which are stated in type A or B
standards, the provisions of this type C standard take precedence over the provisions of the other
standards, for machines that have been designed and built according to the provisions of this type C
standard.
Two legislative frameworks involve RTVR tractors:
— Regulation (EU) No 167/2013 providing requirements for the type-approval of agricultural and
forestry vehicles, also known as Tractor Mother Regulation (TMR), which trucks are homologated
according to. A number of additional Regulations supplements this one, such as:
— Delegated Regulation (EU) No 1322/2014 with regard to construction and general requirements
of agricultural and forestry vehicles;
— Delegated Regulation (EU) 2015/208 with regard to functional safety requirements of
agricultural and forestry vehicles;
— Delegated Regulation (EU) 2015/68 with regard to braking systems of agricultural and forestry
vehicles;
— Delegated Regulation (EU) 2018/985 as regards environmental and propulsion unit
performance requirements for agricultural and forestry vehicles and their engines;
— Implementing Regulation (EU) 2015/504 with regard to the administrative requirements of
agricultural and forestry vehicles.
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— Directive 2006/42/EC as the permanently mounted equipment (PME), that RTVR tractors are
equipped with, falls under the definition of machinery in Article 2 (a) third indent as "an assembly
referred to in the first and second indents, ready to be installed and able to function as it stands only
if mounted on a means of transport".
A CEN/TR “Mapping between the clauses in EN 17968 and the European frameworks involving rough-
terrain variable-reach tractors” is under development.
This document is based on requirements of EN 1459-1:2025.
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1 Scope
This document specifies the safety requirements relevant to load-handling functions for rough-terrain
variable reach tractors (RTVR tractors). This includes the safety requirements for their permanently
mounted equipment (PME).
Fork arms are considered to be part of the PME. RTVR tractors can also be equipped with a variety of
attachments (e.g. bale spikes, mowers, sweepers).
This document deals with all the significant hazards, hazardous situations and events relevant to the
operation of the PME of RTVR tractors when they are used as intended and under conditions of misuse
which are reasonably foreseeable by the manufacturer (see Annex A).
This document does not apply to:
— rough-terrain variable-reach trucks covered by EN 1459-1:2025;
— slewing rough-terrain variable-reach trucks covered by EN 1459-2:2015+A1:2018;
— industrial variable reach trucks covered by EN ISO 3691-2:2023;
— lorry-mounted variable-reach trucks covered by ISO 20297-1:2017;
— variable-reach trucks fitted with tilting or elevating operator position;
— mobile cranes covered by EN 13000:2010+A1:2014;
— machines designed primarily for earth moving, even if their buckets and blades are replaced with
forks (see EN 474 series);
— trucks designed primarily with variable length load suspension elements (e.g. chain, ropes) from
which the load can swing freely in all directions;
— trucks designed primarily for container handling;
— trucks on tracks;
— trucks with articulated chassis;
— front loaders covered by EN 12525:2000+A2:2010;
— attachments.
Determination and declaration of sound power level is not addressed by this document.
This document does not cover sales literature.
This document does not address hazards linked to:
— operation of the RTVR tractor from a position other than the normal operating position or the remote
control;
— hybrid power systems;
— gas power systems;
— gasoline engine systems;
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— battery power systems.
This document does not address hazards which can occur:
a) when handling suspended loads which can swing freely (additional requirements are given in
EN 1459-4:2024+A1:2025);
b) when using RTVR tractors on public roads;
c) when operating in potentially explosive atmospheres (additional requirements are given in
EN 1755:2024);
d) when operating underground;
e) when towing trailers;
f) when fitted with a personnel work platform (additional requirements are given in EN 1459-3:2015
and EN 1459-9:2021);
g) when using system capable of controlling the speed of the RTVR tractor as set by the operator
(cruise-control).
This document does not provide a method of calculation for fatigue and strength of material.
This document is not applicable to RTVR tractors manufactured before the date of its publication.
2 Normative references
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content
constitutes requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For
undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
EN 1459-5:2020, Rough-terrain trucks — Safety requirements and verification — Part 5: Attachment
interface
EN 12053:2001+A1:2008, Safety of industrial trucks — Test methods for measuring noise emissions
EN 13059:2002+A1:2008, Safety of industrial trucks — Test methods for measuring vibration
EN 15000:2008, Safety of industrial trucks — Self-propelled variable reach trucks — Specification,
performance and test requirements for longitudinal load moment indicators and longitudinal load moment
limiters
EN 15830:2012, Rough-terrain variable reach trucks — Visibility — Test methods and verification
EN 17314:2020, Industrial trucks — Specifications and test methods — Operator restraint systems other
than lap-type seat belts
EN 60529:1991, Degrees of protection provided by enclosures (IP Code) (IEC 60529:1989)
EN IEC 62061:2021, Safety of machinery — Functional safety of safety-related electrical, electronic and
programmable electronic control systems (IEC 62061:2021)
This document is impacted by EN 1459-5:2020/prA1:202x.
This document is impacted by the amendments EN 60529:1991/A1:2000 and EN 60529:1991/A2:2013.
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EN ISO 3449:2008, Earth-moving machinery — Falling-object protective structures — Laboratory tests
and performance requirements (ISO 3449:2005)
EN ISO 3457:2008, Earth-moving machinery — Guards — Definitions and requirements (ISO 3457:2003)
EN ISO 3471:2008, Earth-moving machinery — Roll-over protective structures — Laboratory tests and
performance requirements (ISO 3471:2008)
EN ISO 4413:2010, Hydraulic fluid power — General rules and safety requirements for systems and their
components (ISO 4413:2010)
EN ISO 6683:2008, Earth-moving machinery — Seat belts and seat belt anchorages — Performance
requirements and tests (ISO 6683:2005)
EN ISO 11688-1:2009, Acoustics — Recommended practice for the design of low-noise machinery and
equipment — Part 1: Planning (ISO/TR 11688-1:1995)
EN ISO 12100:2010, Safety of machinery — General principles for design — Risk assessment and risk
reduction (ISO 12100:2010)
EN ISO 13849-1:2023, Safety of machinery — Safety-related parts of control systems — Part 1: General
principles for design (ISO 13849-1:2023)
EN ISO 13850:2015, Safety of machinery — Emergency stop function — Principles for design
(ISO 13850:2015)
EN ISO 13857:2019, Safety of machinery — Safety distances to prevent hazard zones being reached by
upper and lower limbs (ISO 13857:2019)
ISO 2328:2011, Fork-lift trucks — Hook-on type fork arms and fork arm carriages — Mounting dimensions
ISO 2330:2002, Fork-lift trucks — Fork arms — Technical characteristics and testing
ISO 3864-1:2011, Graphical symbols — Safety colours and safety sign — Part 1: Design principles for safety
signs and safety markings
ISO 3864-2:2016, Graphical symbols — Safety colours and safety sign — Part 2: Design principles for
product safety labels
ISO 3864-3:2024, Graphical symbols — Safety colours and safety sign — Part 3: Design principles for
graphical symbols for use in safety signs
ISO 3864-4:2011, Graphical symbols — Safety colours and safety sign — Part 4: Colorimetric and
photometric properties of safety sign materials
ISO 5053-1:2020, Industrial trucks — Vocabulary — Part 1: Types of industrial trucks
ISO 6011:2003, Earth-moving machinery — Visual display of machine operation
ISO 7000:2019, Graphical symbols for use on equipment — Registered symbols
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ISO 9244:2008 , Graphical symbols for use on equipment — Registered symbols
ISO 10263-2:2009, Earth-moving machinery — Operator enclosure environment — Part 2: Air filter
element test method
ISO 10263-4:2009, Earth-moving machinery — Operator enclosure environment — Part 4: Heating,
ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) test method and performance
ISO 12509:2023, Earth-moving machinery and rough-terrain trucks — Lighting, signalling and marking
lights, and reflex reflectors
ISO 13333:1994, Earth-moving machinery — Dumper body support and operator's cab tilt support devices
ISO 15817:2012, Earth-moving machinery — Safety requirements for remote operator control systems
ISO 15818:2017, Earth-moving machinery — Lifting and tying-down attachment points — Performance
requirements
ISO 15870:2000, Powered industrial trucks — Safety signs and hazard pictorials — General principles
ISO 16528-1:2007, Boilers and pressure vessels — Part 1: Performance requirements
ISO 16528-2:2007, Boilers and pressure vessels — Part 2: Procedures for fulfilling the requirements of
ISO 16528-1
ISO 21507:2010, Earth-moving machinery — Performance requirements for non-metallic fuel tanks
ISO 22915-10:2023, Industrial trucks — Verification of stability — Part 10: Additional stability test for
trucks operating in the special condition of stacking with load laterally displaced by powered devices
ISO 22915-14:2010, Industrial trucks — Verification of stability — Part 14: Rough-terrain variable-reach
trucks
ISO 22915-20:2023, Industrial trucks — Verification of stability — Part 20: Additional stability test for
trucks operating in the special condition of offset load, offset by utilization
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the terms and definitions given in EN ISO 12100:2010, ISO 5053-
1:2020 and the following apply.
ISO and IEC maintain terminology databases for use in standardization at the following addresses:
— ISO Online browsing platform: available at https://www.iso.org/obp
— IEC Electropedia: available at https://www.electropedia.org/
3.1
tractor
motorised, wheeled agricultural or forestry vehicle having two axles and a maximum design speed of not
less than 6 km/h, the main function of which lies in its tractive power and which has been especially
As impacted by ISO 9244:2008/Amd 1:2016.
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designed to pull, push, carry and actuate certain interchangeable equipment designed to perform
agricultural or forestry work, or to tow agricultural or forestry trailers or equipment
[SOURCE: Regulation (EU) No 167/2013, Article 3(8), modified]
3.2
rough-terrain variable-reach tractor
RTVR tractor
tractor having one telescopic articulated arm, non-slewing or having a slewing movement of not more
than 5° either side of the longitudinal axis of the RTVR tractor used for stacking loads
Note 1 to entry: See Figure 1.
Figure 1 — RTVR tractor
3.3
compact rough-terrain variable-reach tractor
RTVR tractor having a maximum height in normal travel mode of 2 150 mm and at least one of the
following conditions:
— a maximum operating mass of 7 000 kg;
— a maximum width in normal travel mode of 2 000 mm
Note 1 to entry: These dimensions do not include equipment such as working lights, mirrors, etc.
3.4
actual capacity
Q
maximum load, established by the manufacturer based on components strength and RTVR tractor
stability, that the RTVR tractor can carry, lift and stack to a specified height, at a specified standard load
centre distance and reach, in normal operating conditions
Note 1 to entry: The actual capacity depends on the configuration of the RTVR tractor in terms of such variables as:
— lift height;
— reach of the boom;
— standard load centre distance;
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— load handling device (fork arms or attachment fitted);
— stabilizing devices.
Note 2 to entry: This actual capacity defines the load handling ability of the particular RTVR tractor as equipped.
Additional actual capacity ratings with removable attachments may also be established where permitted by the
appropriate stability test or by calculation verified by empirical data.
3.5
rated capacity
Q1
maximum load permitted by the manufacturer at the standard load centre distance (D) that the RTVR
tractor is capable of lifting and transporting on fork arms in normal conditions with the boom fully
retracted
3.6
reach
d
distance between two vertical parallel planes, one plane tangent to the front of the outside diameter of
the front tyres, the other plane described by the vertical projection of the centre-of-gravity of the load to
the ground
Note 1 to entry: The centre-of-gravity of the load (G) is defined in Table 1.
Note 2 to entry: See Figure 2 for examples of reach.
Note 3 to entry: For practical matters, d can be measured referring to point g, being g the vertical projection of the
centre-of-gravity (G) of the load onto the plane of the top surface of the fork arms.
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Key
d reach
D standard load centre distance
G centre of gravity of the load
g the vertical projection of the centre-of-gravity (G) of the load onto the plane of the top surface of the fork
arms
H height of the load
Q actual capacity
Q1 rated capacity
Q2 actual capacity at maximum height or elevation
Q3 actual capacity at maximum reach
Figure 2 — Parameters for the designation of the actual capacity of the RTVR tractor with fork
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3.7
lift height
H
vertical distance between the upper face of the fork arms and the ground
Note to entry: See Figure 2.
3.8
standard load centre distance
D
distance from the centre of gravity (G) of the load measured horizontally back to the front of the fork
shanks and vertically down to the upper faces of the fork arms, as specified in Table 1
Note 1 to entry: See Figure 2, for example.
Note 2 to entry: Typical standard load centre distances are given in Table 1. Trucks may be rated for special
applications with load centres related to those applications which may be different from those listed in Table 1.
Table 1 — Typical standard load centre distance
Rated capacity Q in kg Standard load centre distance D in mm
400 500 600 900 1 200
0 < 1 000 X
≥ 1 000 < 5 000 X
≥ 5 000 ≤ 10 000 X
> 10 000 < 20 000 X X X
≥ 20 000 < 25 000 X X
≥ 25 000 X
3.9
axle oscillation lock
mechanism designed to prevent oscillation of an axle to improve RTVR tractor stability
3.10
stabilising devices
extendable and/or pivoting mechanical supports used to improve stability of a RTVR tractor when
stationary
3.11
lateral levelling
changing the lateral inclination angle between the chassis and the ground to ensure the boom operates
in a vertical plane even when the RTVR tractor is positioned on a side slope
3.12
forks
device comprising two or more solid fork arms, each consisting of a shank (vertical portion) and blade,
which is hook- or shaft-mounted, fitted on the carriage and usually adjusted manually
3.13
boom
pivoting support member that permits horizontal and vertical positioning of the load or attachment
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3.14
crab steering mode
steering mode where all wheels of the RTVR tractor steer in the same direction
3.15
normal operating position
position specified by the manufacturer in which the operator is able to control the RTVR tractor
operations, including load handling functions
3.16
attachment bracket
device fitted at the end of the boom to mount interchangeable attachments to facilitate quick interchange
of attachment
3.17
boom float
operating mode that uses gravity to allow an attachment at the end of the boom to follow a contour (e.g.
the ground)
3.18
maximum working pressure
maximum pressure in the hydraulic circuit during normal operation
Note to entry: This definition is derived from ISO 10972-3:2003, 3.2.
3.19
level ground
ground with a gradient of (0 ± 2) %
3.20
operating mass
mass of the RTVR tractor equipped with forks, unladen, and with the operator (75 kg), full fuel tank and
all fluid systems (i.e. hydraulic oil, transmission oil, engine oil, engine coolant) at the levels specified by
the manufacturer
3.21
technically permissible maximum operating mass
operating mass without the forks and including the heaviest permitted attachment without load
3.22
operator’s station
part of the machine which surrounds the normal operating position
3.23
enclosed cab
cab where door(s) or window
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