Those handling cattle are always at risk of being crushed, kicked, butted or gored, but it is all too easy to become complacent.
Indeed, animals have been the third-biggest cause of fatality in agriculture over recent years and the second-biggest cause of injury.
The risk of injury to is dramatically increased when carrying out tasks on unrestrained cattle or using makeshift equipment.
You can reduce the risk to yourself, employees and others (such as vets) by using:
- proper handling facilities kept in good working order;
- a crush that is suitable for the tasks being undertaken;
- techniques that keep people segregated from cattle;
- trained, competent and agile people; and
- a rigorous culling policy for temperamental animals
More guidance on handling cattle can be found on the HSE website and in this HSE information sheet.