Working with livestock is responsible for 39 farm workplace deaths on Irish farms in the last 10 years. During this period 7 deaths were caused by an attack by a bull, 22 by cows and heifers and 5 were associated with cattle. Farm safety specialists Francis Bligh and John McNamara have some advice
Working with livestock is responsible for 39 farm workplace deaths on Irish farms in the last 10 years. During this period 7 deaths were caused by an attack by a bull, 22 by cows and heifers and 5 were associated with cattle.
Some important safety tips.
- Before attempting to assist any animal at calving take time to make plans to ensure she is in a proper calving pen where it is possible to restrain her. A calving gate allows easy access to the cow but provides a physical barrier to improve control.
- Ensure cattle-handling penning is suitable for the animal type and the numbers of animals that may be present. Overcrowded cattle pens have significant safety risks.
- Make sure that livestock handling facilities are well designed and made with strong materials.
- Never enter a crush with livestock.
- Ensure that the head gate for restraining an animal is correctly adjusted and maintained.
- Bulls must be respected, even a quiet bull has the potential to kill. Click here to view Ann’s Survivor Story
- Carry a mobile phone, stay vigilant and always have an escape route when herding livestock.
- For further information visit www.teagasc.ie and www.hsa.ie
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Article from https://www.teagasc.ie/news–events/daily/farm-business/working-safely-with-livestock-on-farms.php
