Prioritising User Safety in Livestock Handling Equipment Design

In the livestock industry, safety is paramount, not just for the animals but for the handlers as well.

Poorly designed livestock handling equipment can result in stress and injury for both, negatively impacting operational efficiency and profitability.

In this article, we explore why user safety should be a priority in livestock handling equipment and how innovative designs can mitigate risks and enhance productivity.

The Importance of Safety in Livestock Handling

Livestock handling, by nature, involves working with animals that can weigh several hundred kilograms. The risk of injury is significant if safety protocols and equipment are not properly designed.

According to Safe Work Australia, safe livestock handling practices are essential to reduce the risk of workplace injuries, especially in high-risk environments like cattle yards and sheep shearing operations.

ProWay recognises these challenges and has integrated safety into every step of their design process.

Tips on Ensuring Safe Livestock Handling Equipment

• Steer clear of blind corners and sharp turns in your yard design.
• All livestock equipment (e.g., cradles, crushes, sheds, and yards) should have the correct size and durability to ensure animals are being handled properly.
• Ensure laneways and walkways are kept dry and slip-resistant.
• Keep your entryways, footholds, and gates in good arrangement.
• Ensure all equipment is continually updated (e.g., hinges, gates, and latches).
• Avoid surfaces that are uneven in ramps and yards.
• Ensure that livestock handling equipment is properly maintained.

For further information, read this article from Better Health Victoria.

Custom-Designed Solutions for Enhanced Safety

At ProWay, our custom equipment solutions take into account the specific needs of livestock producers.

By tailoring cattle, sheep, and goat handling facilities to suit each operation, we ensure that the equipment not only meets operational requirements but also minimises hazards for handlers.

Our systems are built to utilise the natural movements and instincts of animals, promoting smooth stock flow and reducing stress. This focus on natural animal behaviour leads to safer environments for both workers and animals.

As highlighted by Meat & Livestock Australia, automation in livestock handling not only improves efficiency but also has proven benefits for reducing workplace accidents.

Compliance with Safety Standards

ProWay adheres to strict Australian safety standards, including compliance with Occupational Health & Safety (OH&S) requirements. This ensures that their equipment meets the highest benchmarks for safety.

Our designs are engineered to minimise human-animal contact, a leading cause of injury in livestock handling. Their cattle yards, for instance, are built to improve stock flow while reducing the likelihood of hide damage, bruising, or operator injury.

Ensuring Safety in Cattle Handling Equipment

There are many risks involved in cattle handling, such as transportation and electrical hazards. Poorly designed equipment can cause serious injuries to both the animals and the users.

For more tips and safety information on cattle handling, refer to:

• SafeWork NSW – Working with Livestock Fact Sheet
• Design Tips for Safer Cattle Handling Systems
• Cattle Handling Safety Guide – AgHealth

Find out more about our cattle handling equipment.

Ensuring Safety in Goat Handling Equipment

Goats are increasingly becoming a key part of the livestock industry, and proper handling equipment is essential to ensure both animal welfare and operational efficiency. Poor equipment design can lead to injuries and stress for both the animals and handlers.

For industry standards and guidelines for goat handling, refer to the Australia Industry Standards and Guidelines for Goats.

Find out more about our goat handling equipment.

Ensuring Safety in Sheep Handling Equipment

When handling large flocks of sheep, it’s important to ensure that the equipment is designed for safety and smooth operation. Sheep, when grouped together, can become stressed, making quality equipment and maintenance crucial.

For more detailed guidelines on sheep handling, refer to:

• MLA Producer’s Guide to Sheep Husbandry Practices
• Safe Sheep Handling – WorkSafe NZ
• Farm Safety – Sheep and Shearing

Find out more about our sheep handling equipment.

In Summary

In the livestock industry, safety cannot be compromised. The design of livestock handling equipment plays a crucial role in reducing risks to both handlers and animals.

ProWay’s commitment to innovation, custom-designed solutions, and adherence to Australian safety standards ensures that their equipment not only meets the needs of the modern farmer but also prioritises safety at every level.

Explore our range of custom-designed livestock handling equipment today and take the first step towards a safer, more efficient operation.

Contact us for a design consultation or more information on how we can help you protect both your livestock and your team.