Supplement
Helpful tips for handling cattle safely
Every year, we hear of someone killed by a protective cow or bull. Raising cattle is a great way of life. However, keep in mind that these animals can turn aggressive. Being prepared will keep you and your cattle safe. We all know that farming is one of the most dangerous occupations, yet we o�en think more in terms of farm machinery, not livestock. Every year, we hear of someone killed by a protective cow or bull. Raising cattle is a great way of life. However, keep in mind that these animals can turn aggressive. Being prepared will keep you and your cattle safe. First, all beef producers must have a method of handling cattle for routine and emergency work. A properly designed and functioning handling facility should be on the farm before the rst beef animal arrives. �ere is a lot of information from your extension office on handling systems, so I won ' t go into details here. I want to focus instead on factors to employ to stay safe.
Use the checklists to evaluate your safety protocol. Working safely is important for you, your family, employees and for the animals. Being aware of the points here will increase the likelihood that you will enjoy a great way of life.
Personnel
1. C l o s e l y s u p e r v i s e n e w a n d inexperienced family members and / or employees.
2. When possible, avoid working alone when loading or unloading stock.
3. Reduce the risk of distraction – e. g. using a cellphone – when working with livestock.
4. Have a rst aid kit near the area of work.
5. Ensure escape routes are available, clear and accessible.
6. Ensure the operator is in a safe position when moving cattle. Equipment
1. Ensure latches, bolts and chains on gates are in good working order, and robust enough to contain stock.
2. Do not overcrowd stock pens. Fill pens to two-thirds capacity to give stock room to move.
3. Maintain facilities in good condition, grease where appropriate, tighten nuts.
4. Keep pens and yards free of any obstructions – e. g. protruding nails, bolts, wire, trip hazards – to avoid injury and ensure free- owing stock. 5. Ensure the yard is well-designed to assist the smooth ow of cattle.
6. Ensure loading facilities have wellpositioned gates and consider adopting curved chutes and covered sides, to improve cattle movement.
7. Use the natural following behaviour of
May- June 2017
FARMERS
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