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.