General information
Farm animals can cause serious injury if not handled properly. Handling animals may involve riding, drenching, dipping, tagging, branding and shearing. Animals can give a swift, hard kick, so watch their behaviour, respect their size and strength and where possible dont stand behind them.
People need to know their limitations around animals and work within them to avoid injury. By understanding animal temperament and behaviour, injury risk can be reduced.
Animal handlers should maintain a high level of physical fitness on a well balanced diet. Read labels on chemical and antibiotic containers carefully and follow manufacturer's instructions and safety directions. Material safety data sheets (MSDS) provide important information on safety risk from agricultural chemicals and should be read before use.
If headaches or any other discomfort is suffered after handling chemicals, seek medical advice and have appropriate tests performed. Avoid these chemicals if possible and use full protective clothing and breathing filters when handling chemicals.
Animals can also transmit zoonotic diseases. Avoid contact with their urine, blood and saliva by wearing the correct personal protective equipment. Keep wounds covered with waterproof dressings and practice strict personal hygiene.
More information about Zoonoses - diseases that can be spread from animals to humans is available from the Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries.
Other languages