As National Farm Safety and Health Week continues, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach is reminding livestock handlers to make safety a priority when working with animals.
Chris Clark, an Iowa State beef field specialist, says many livestock-related injuries can be prevented by understanding animal behavior and taking the proper precautions.
Livestock handlers can face injuries from animals charging, kicking, striking with their heads, or pinning someone against a fence or the ground. Clark recommends using low-stress handling techniques, avoiding loud noises and sudden movements, and paying attention to an animal’s flight zone and body language.
He also encourages farmers to identify an escape route, avoid working alone, and use extra caution around mature males and protective mothers. Maintaining equipment, staying alert, and taking time to complete tasks safely are also important.
“Sometimes we take unnecessary risks, maybe just to save a few minutes or because we’re losing patience with a situation,” Clark said.
Livestock work also comes with risks involving needle sticks, chemical exposure, and diseases that can spread from animals to humans. Farmers are encouraged to read product labels, properly restrain animals during injections, and wash their hands after working with livestock, manure, or other bodily fluids.
National Farm Safety and Health Week runs September 21–25.
For more information, contact Chris Clark at 712-250-0070 or caclark@iastate.edu.
Source: Iowa State University Extension and Outreach.
