The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) has urged farmers to plan ahead and put safety measures in place during this calving season. The body advises that there must be enough space and shelter for the number, size and class of cattle.
Senior inspector Pat Griffin says that, “Cows and, in particular, heifers, can be unpredictable before, during or after calving and may become aggressive,” he said.
The safety watchdog recommends that good calving facilities and holding areas where farmers can manage cows remotely are important and can help reduce farmer fatigue.
“Well-prepared calving units with clean bedding, calving gates and the necessary equipment will ensure safety and reduce stress both on farmers and on the animal.”
“With much of calving happening during short and often dull days, or at night, farmers are encouraged to have plenty of well-positioned lights in calving units and around the farmyard as this will greatly improve visibility and safety,” he said.
The HSA began a two-week intensive farm safety inspection campaign this week, on January 24, 2022. It will examine the safe management of livestock during calving season when the risk of injury to farmers increases.
“Early planning and preparation can make a significant difference in the safe management of livestock, and help prevent injury or even death”, said Griffin.
LSL News.