Handling Livestock Safely
Background
- Livestock-related injuries occur frequently on the farm to workers, family members, and visitors alike.
- Most of these injuries happen when handling the animals.
- Bulls can be especially dangerous because of their large size, strength, and changing temperament.
Tips
- Since livestock animals are unpredictable, respect their size and speed.
- Keep alert when working around animals if they are cornered, tired, excited, or have new-borns.
- Handle all cattle firmly but gently, not roughly or noisily.
- Design livestock pens and/or handling facilities that allow easy access and exit and that have an emergency exit.
- Keep children and bystanders out of livestock handling area.
- Label livestock handling areas to warn visitors away.
- Be familiar with the common instincts of the animals with which you work—e.g., territorial instincts plus reactions to changes in lighting or shadows, to separation, to sudden or loud noises.
- Wear safety shoes or boots when handling livestock
- Use a filter respirator in dusty animal facilities conditions.
Last updated: 18-May-2006 11:08 AM