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The OECD Tractor Codes are open to countries which are Members of the OECD, as well as to other countries. To date, 29 Countries adhere to them including 4 non OECD Members : China, India, the Russian Federation and Serbia. Each National Authority designated for implementing the Codes can perform tractor tests according to the common harmonised procedures, and then submit results to OECD for approval.
The testing relates to tractor performance characteristics (Code 2); protective structures ("dynamic test", "static test", "telehandlers" and "falling objects" - Codes 3, 4, 9 and 10); for narrow-track wheeled tractors ("front-mounted" or "rear-mounted" structures -Codes 6 and 7) and for tracklaying tractors (Code 8); noise measurement at the driver's position (Code 5).
Since the Codes were established in 1959, more than 2 000 tractor models were tested for their performance characteristics, 10 000 variants of tractors were tested for noise measurement at the driving position or for the driver's protection in case of tractor roll-over. By testifying the quality of the traded material, the approvals granted by the OECD facilitate the international trade.
In each country, the national stations in charge of tractor testing follow the rules and procedures of the OECD Codes for performing their tests. These rules are regularly discussed and updated. The results of approved tests are published and used by tractor manufacturers, sellers and users. Summaries of performance test results are available on line.
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