Animal Safety
Livestock production makes up about 64% of agricultural products sold in South Carolina, making livestock a vital part of many agricultural operations. Before working around livestock, always take a few extra moments to prepare yourself, wear the proper PPE, and remain alert to prevent injuries to yourself and the animals.
Common Animal Related Hazards
- Kicks and Strikes
- Cattle, horses, and other livestock can kick with extreme amounts of force if startled or approached improperly.
- If you must walk around the back side of a cow or horse, stay very close with a hand on the animal or stay far away out of kicking range. Never linger in the middle kick zone where a back leg can hit you with full force.
- Bites
- Many animals will bite when frightened, restrained incorrectly, or if they feel threatened.
- Being Crushed or Pinned
- Large animals can accidentally pin handlers against fences, gates, trailers, or equipment.
- When working around livestock, always make sure that you have an escape plan!
- Charging and Aggressive Behavior
- Protective mothers, breeding males, and stressed animals may become aggressive with little warning.
- Always have an understanding of where livestock are if you are in the enclosure with them.
Understanding Animal Behavior
- Understanding an animal’s body language can help prevent a dangerous situation.
- Watch for signs such as:
- Raised head and focused attention
- Pinned ears
- Pawing the ground
- Tail swishing
- Loud vocalizations
- Stiff body posture
- Attempts to escape or turn away
- Animals that appear nervous or agitated should be handled calmly and given adequate space!
Personal Protective Equipment
- Dress appropriately for the task and avoid loose clothing that could become caught on gates, fences, or equipment.
- Leather work boots with slip-resistant soles
- Long pants
- Gloves when handling livestock or equipment
- Safety glasses when needed
Safe Livestock Handling Practices
- Always remain calm and avoid sudden movements.
- Never yell or strike animals unnecessarily.
- Approach animals from the side where they can see you.
- Be aware of an animal’s blind spots.
- Use proper handling equipment such as sorting panels, chutes, and head gates.
- Keep escape routes available whenever working in confined spaces.
Youth Safety Around Livestock
- Youth should always be supervised when working around livestock.
- Make sure that children learn safe handling techniques before entering pens.
- Youth should never enter pens with aggressive animals.
- Avoid standing behind livestock.
- Understand that livestock are farm animals, not pets.
Teaching safe habits early helps build confidence and prevents injuries!
