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SAFELY WORKING WITH AND AROUND
FARM/RANCH ANIMALS
The following safety module is intended to be used as a
refresher safety awareness session and is in no way to be used as a substitute for job
training nor proper equipment use.
One in three injuries on the farm/ranch involve handling or contact with large animals.
Animal movements are generally unpredictible, so learn to recognize the signs of fear,
pain and stress in the animals with which you work.
 APPROACH ANIMAL
SAFELY
The proper approach to a large animal is critical to working with them safely. Most large
animals can see at wide angles around them, but there is a blind spot directly behind
their hind quarters beyond which they cannot see. Any movement in this "blind
spot" will make the animal uneasy and nervous. The safest approach is to
"announce" your approach through a touch to their front or side. Most large
animals will kick in an arch beginning toward the front and moving toward the back. Avoid
this kicking region when approaching the animal.
SEPARATE CATTLE
SAFELY
As one large cow can weigh up to 1500 lbs, it is not a good idea to try to manually
separate cows using gates or boards. A frightened cow or horse will plow right over you.
It is safer to use proper handling facilities made specially for separateing large
animals. Most animals will be more cooperative in moving through a chute that has minimal
distractions.
LEAVE YOURSELF
AN "OUT"
When you are inside a handling facility or milking lane, always leave yourself a way to
get out if it becomes necessary. Try to avoid entering a small area enclosed with large
animals unless it is equipped with a mangate that you can get to easily.
BE CAREFUL
AROUND SICK/HURT ANIMALS
When working with sick and hurt animals be sure to protect yourself from any animal-borne
diseases such as undulant fever, tetanus, rabies, etc. Wear rubber gloves and other
protective clothing for protection and practice good hygiene by washing your hands and
face after handling animals.
PRACTICE GOOD
HOUSEKEEPING
Keeping your work area clean and free of debris will help provide a safe working
environment. Check for and eliminate any sharp corners or protrusions in walkways. Check
to ensure that all latches and levers can't fly open easily. Clean concrete ramps and
floors regularly to prevent slips and trips. Keep pitch forks and other sharp tools stored
properly out of walkways.
MAINTAIN EVEN
LIGHTING
Shadows mixed with light spots inside handling facilities will increase the animal's fear
and tension. Try to keep the lighting in these moving areas dispersed evenly.
WORKING SAFELY
WITH DAIRY CATTLE
Dairy cattle are generally more nervous than other animals, so it's important to approach
these animals gently to avoid startling them. Once you have moved dairy cattle into the
milking stalls, give them a moment to adapt to the new environment before beginning your
operation.
SAFELY WORKING
WITH SWINE
Though hogs are not normally aggressive animals, they can become dangerous animals if
threatened, especially sows protecting her young. The best method by which to move hogs is
by guiding hogs combined with gates and/or panels. Announce your approach to hogs as you
do with other animals. Do not walk up to them quietly and surprise them.
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