Employers who allow the use of quad bikes or all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) have been warned by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) that they must ensure their safe operation.

The warning comes after an employee of Kelloe Mains Farm near Duns was killed after suffering fatal head injuries while operating an ATV.

Grant Shannon, 34, had worked on the farm for only three days when he was asked to help bring some cows in using the bike. He agreed, although he had not received any formal training to use the vehicle and had not been provided with a helmet.

Mr Shannon hit a tree and died at the scene.

R & J McDonald, the owners of the farm, were fined and prosecuted by the HSE and inspector Gillian McLean said those using quad bikes should be provided with adequate training, well-maintained vehicles and appropriate head gear.

"Sadly, farming is a dangerous business, and the numbers of deaths and injuries to farmers, workers and members of the public is unacceptable," she added.

Employers must carry out risk assessments for all perceived dangers and provide measures to prevent accidents where appropriate.