AMBULANCE Victoria (AV) Wangaratta's part in rolling out state-of-the-art over snow vehicles received recognition as a finalist at last week’s WorkSafe awards.

The Can-Am Defender all-terrain vehicle was one of three finalists in the Workplace Health and Safety Solution of the Year category.

Specifically designed for snow conditions, the vehicles are purpose-built to handle Victoria’s mountainous conditions by providing smoother and quicker transport for patients and paramedics in an emergency.

New Can-Am Defenders were stationed at Mount Buller, Mount Hotham and Falls Creek last winter.

AV Hume area manager Rob Heaslip said a lot of planning went into the specialist response vehicles.

“After years of rigorous testing, we’ve modified the design to make the vehicles lighter and easier to operate in Victoria’s unique alpine conditions,” he said.

“The entire project was a massive undertaking, and the result is testament to the collaboration between our operational Alpine staff, AV’s health and safety teams, our fleet and equipment colleagues and vehicle engineers at Mader International.

“Ultimately, these vehicles enable a higher level of clinical care, which translates to improved clinical outcomes.

“We are proud to have these innovative vehicles recognised as a finalist at the WorkSafe awards.”

The Genesis Safety Change Table by Genesis Safety Pty Ltd was named the winner of the category which was commended for reducing the risk of hazardous manual handling injuries for early childhood educators.