SAFE HANDLING OF FARM ANIMALS TAILGATE TALK
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380-BKJ-01-IAOT © 2022, Workplace Safety & Prevention Services (WSPS)
1 877 494 WSPS (9777) | 905 614 1400 | wsps.ca
Lighting should be even and diffused to eliminate glare. Animals generally move readily from dark areas
into well-lighted areas but are reluctant to move from lighted areas into dark areas. Bright spots and
shadows tend to make animals skittish, especially in crowded or loading areas. Animal facility layouts
should be designed so animals do not look directly into the sun when being moved.
Appropriate handling equipment can reduce injuries to animals and humans and save labor and time
during various phases of production. For example, adequate equipment can reduce time needed for
feeding, medical care/treatment, loading animals for market, "housekeeping", data recording, etc.
Personal Protective Equipment
Workers should always wear steel-toed boots when working with animals and protective gloves and
other protective clothing when working with sick or hurt animals. A dust filter mask should be used
where necessary to minimize respiratory hazards.
"Do's and Don'ts" of Handling Farm Animals
DO
Know characteristics of animal vision
and hearing
Know sensitive warning signs
Maintain housekeeping
Touch animal gently
Avoid the kicking region when
approaching an animal
Maintain even lighting
DON'T
Expose animal to loud noises and quick
movements
Clutter alleyways and walking surfaces
Enter a small, enclosed area with an
animal unless equipped with a man gate
Overcrowd pens or chutes
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